An 80-year-old man has died following a fire that broke out at his home in the Githinguri area of Murang’a County, police have confirmed.
The deceased was identified as Elizaphan Macharia, a long-time resident of the area. According to authorities, Macharia was asleep inside his house when the fire started on Wednesday night.
Neighbours reportedly noticed flames coming from the house and raised the alarm, but efforts to rescue him were unsuccessful.
Police officers who visited the scene said the fire spread quickly, leaving the elderly man with no chance to escape. By the time emergency responders arrived, the house had already been severely damaged, and Macharia was found dead inside the structure.
The cause of the fire had not been established by the time of reporting. Police said investigations are ongoing to determine what may have triggered the blaze, including whether it was caused by an electrical fault, an open flame, or other factors.
Fire investigators are expected to conduct a detailed assessment of the scene to establish the origin of the fire.
Macharia’s remains were taken to the mortuary, where an autopsy will be conducted to formally determine the cause of death. Police said the postmortem examination will also help rule out any other contributing factors.
The incident has shocked residents of Githinguri, many of whom described Macharia as a quiet and well-known member of the community.
Local leaders have urged residents, especially those living alone or elderly, to take extra precautions to reduce fire risks in their homes.
Authorities have also reminded the public to regularly check electrical wiring, avoid unsafe heating or lighting methods, and report fire hazards promptly to prevent similar tragedies.
