Detectives Probe Killing of Nyandarua Catholic Priest Who Recently Hosted Gachagua
Detectives are investigating the mysterious killing of Father John Maina Ndegwa, a Catholic priest from Nyandarua County, whose body was found along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway just two weeks after hosting former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Father Maina, who served at Igwamiti Catholic Parish under the Diocese of Nyahururu, was found unconscious and severely injured on May 15, 2025, at Kikopey in Gilgil, Nakuru County—over 50 kilometers from his parish. He later succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment at St Mary Hospital in Gilgil.
Authorities believe the priest may have been murdered elsewhere and his body dumped at the scene. His Subaru vehicle is missing, raising suspicions that it may have been used to transport his body. “It is possible that the Catholic priest was killed somewhere else and his body was dumped there. Detectives have launched an investigation,” said Gilgil DCI chief Rahamad Wasilwa.
An autopsy will be conducted at St Benedict’s Mission Hospital mortuary to determine the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, a homicide team has joined the investigation as detectives intensify efforts to retrace Father Maina’s final movements.
Investigators are working with Safaricom to access the priest’s last communications and are questioning individuals who were last seen with him. The aim is to identify anyone who may have had contact with the priest before his untimely death.
The news of Father Maina’s death has sent shockwaves through the Catholic community and the wider Nyandarua region. Just a fortnight ago, the priest had hosted a high-profile fundraiser attended by Gachagua and other regional leaders.
Nyandarua Senator John Methu expressed his sorrow, stating, “We’re in deep shock to learn of the very sudden death of Rev. Father John Maina Ndegwa of Igwamiti parish. Father Maina hosted Rigathi Gachagua and our team a fortnight ago for the parish’s family day. May your soul, my good friend, rest in peace.”
Over the weekend, emotional prayers and tributes were held at St Louis Church in Igwamiti, where parishioners and clergy came together to mourn a man many described as a humble and dedicated servant of God. Tributes have continued to pour in on social media, highlighting the priest’s spiritual leadership and the void his death leaves in the community.
Detectives are calling for anyone with information about the priest’s final hours or the whereabouts of his vehicle to come forward as investigations continue.
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Detectives Probe Killing of Nyandarua Catholic Priest Who Recently Hosted Gachagua