Tragedy in Kirinyaga: 19-Year-Old Girl Dies by Suicide After Urging Family to Return Home
Shock and grief have gripped residents of Red Soil village in Mwea East, Kirinyaga County, after a 19-year-old girl, Rachael Mwihaki, died by suicide shortly after making urgent calls to her father and elder sister, pleading with them to come home.
According to her sister, Regina Ng’endo, Rachael phoned her claiming their mother, Elizabeth Wakuthii, was threatening to take her own life. Concerned, Ng’endo explained she didn’t have fare to travel. Rachael sent money to assist her, but by the time Ng’endo arrived home, the tragic scene had already unfolded.
“She called me and said Mum wanted to commit suicide. I told her I didn’t have fare, so she sent it. But when I got home, I found her hanging in the bedroom,” said Ng’endo, struggling to hold back tears.
Ng’endo added that Rachael had also contacted their father, Peter Mwangi, who had been away from home for five days. He rushed back following her call but arrived to the same devastating sight—his daughter had taken her life.
Local area leader Stephen Kimani reported the matter to Wang’uru Police Station, with officers responding promptly after villagers raised alarm.
Rachael had recently joined a local college in Ngurubani town after completing her Form Four studies. Her sudden death has raised fresh concerns about the mental well-being of youth in the region.
Speaking on the incident, Kamau Muchira, Chairperson of the Counselling and Psychological Association in Kirinyaga, described the tragedy as a wake-up call.
“It is deeply saddening that such a case has occurred during Mental Health Awareness Month. We must intensify efforts to address mental health issues, especially among our youth,” said Muchira.
Rachael’s body has been moved to Kibugi Funeral Home as investigations into the incident continue.
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Tragedy in Kirinyaga: 19-Year-Old Girl Dies by Suicide After Urging Family to Return Home