A family in Molo, Nakuru County, is grieving the loss of their 18-year-old daughter, Joy Wangui, who was allegedly killed by her boyfriend in circumstances that are still unfolding. Wangui, a Form Four student at Molo Secondary School, was found dead in Kiambaa, Moto Location. Her mother, Trizah Wairimu, described her daughter as her firstborn child and expressed her devastation over the loss.
According to investigators, multiple weapons were recovered at the scene, believed to have been used in the attack. Walter Kipkoech, 23, whom detectives believe was Wangui's boyfriend, was tracked to a hideout in Lagwenda, Kuresoi North, and arrested. At the time of his arrest, Kipkoech was wearing a blood-stained boxer, a white T-shirt with the deceased's name printed at the hem, and black jeans bearing visible dry blood stains.
Wairimu revealed that the family had previously reported Kipkoech to both the police and the local chief over concerns about the relationship. She acknowledged that she had been aware of her daughter's relationship with Kipkoech but said the family had not waited to act. Wairimu emphasized that as a parent, she would love justice for her daughter, noting that no one deserves to die because of love.
Wairimu described Joy as a hardworking and academically gifted young woman, noting she had been achieving B grades and that the family had harboured hopes of seeing her join university. She urged young people to heed parental guidance, stating that when a parent raises an alarm about a situation, it is because experience gives them insight that children may not yet possess.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with many expressing their condolences to the grieving family. Wangui was preparing to sit her 2026 KCSE examinations, and her death has been met with an outpouring of sympathy from friends and classmates.
Kipkoech remains in custody as investigators continue the case. Detectives are working to piece together the events surrounding Wangui's death and are reviewing evidence collected from the scene. A message discovered on the wall at the scene read, “I love you Joy but never cheat, am sorry.”
The case has highlighted concerns about the safety of young people in relationships and the importance of parental guidance. Wairimu's plea for justice for her daughter has resonated with many, and the community is rallying around the family during this difficult time.
Key points
- The family of the victim had previously reported the boyfriend to the police and local chief over concerns about the relationship.
- The suspect, Walter Kipkoech, was found wearing blood-stained clothes, including a T-shirt bearing the victim's name.
- The victim, Joy Wangui, was a Form Four student who was preparing to sit her 2026 KCSE examinations.
