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Catholic Priest Found Dead Weeks After Hosting Gachagua

  • The Catholic Diocese of Nyahururu is mourning the sudden death of Rev. Father John Maina Ndegwa.

Grief has swept through Nyahururu and beyond following the shocking death of Reverend Father John Maina Ndegwa. The respected priest, known for his humble service and devotion to his flock, was found dead in disturbing circumstances, sending shockwaves across the country.

Body Discovered Far From Home

His lifeless body was discovered on Thursday, May 15, dumped near Kikopey along the busy Nakuru-Nairobi highway. The location is nearly 50 kilometers from his church, St. Louis Catholic Parish in Igwamiti, raising questions about what happened to him before his death.

Investigations Point to Foul Play

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) suspect Father Maina did not die at the scene but was instead killed elsewhere and later dumped along the highway. His car, a Subaru Forester believed to have been used during the crime, is still missing, adding to the mystery surrounding the case.

Recent Public Appearance Raises Questions

The death has drawn increased attention because it comes just weeks after Father Maina hosted a well-attended fundraiser at his parish. The event saw the presence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and several other dignitaries, prompting further speculation on possible motives.

Autopsy to Provide More Clues

The priest’s body has been taken to St. Benedict Catholic Mission Hospital, where a postmortem will be carried out to help determine the exact cause of death and assist investigators in piecing together what happened.

Final Mass and National Condolences

A special Mass in memory of Father Maina is scheduled for Friday, May 16, at 3:30 p.m. at St. Louis Catholic Parish, where he served faithfully until his death. Tributes have poured in from clergy, parishioners, and citizens across the country. His Grace Bishop Joseph Mbatia, fellow priests, and religious leaders from various faiths have all shared messages of sorrow and solidarity with his family.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him,” read a message from the church.