A domestic dispute turned tragic in Kiganjo Estate, Thika, after a father allegedly poured acid on his estranged wife and their two young sons in an attack that claimed all four lives.
The family died while undergoing treatment at Thika Level 5 Hospital and other referral facilities.
The father, identified as Martin Kamau, is reported to have attacked his wife, Phylis Wambui, and their children, Terence Waweru, 4, and Talan Kamau, 6, on Friday night following a domestic disagreement.
According to family members, the incident is believed to have stemmed from a long-standing dispute between the couple, who had reportedly been living separately for several months.
Kamau is alleged to have died on Friday evening alongside his firstborn son, Talan, while the younger child, Terence, succumbed to his injuries a few hours later while being transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital for specialised treatment on Saturday afternoon.
Wambui, who had earlier been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital after the ICU at Thika Level 5 Hospital was reported to be full, died on Saturday before midday while receiving treatment.
Thika West Sub-County Police Commander John Kimanthi confirmed the incident, saying preliminary investigations indicate that the father had sent the children to a nearby shop before the attack.
“When the children returned, they reportedly found their parents quarrelling. Upon entering the house, the suspect allegedly poured acid on them,” he said.
Neighbours, alerted by screams and commotion, called police, who rushed the victims to Thika Level 5 Hospital while they were unconscious. Kamau and one of the children later died while receiving treatment.
The incident has shocked residents of Kiganjo Estate as police continue with investigations into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
