A 90-year-old man miraculously escaped with his life after suspected arsonists set his house ablaze in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Kirigu Village, Kirinyaga County.
The incident, which occurred around dawn on November 12, 2024, has left the quiet farming community in shock and raised concerns about the safety of elderly residents in the area.
According to local authorities, the victim, whose name has been withheld for security reasons, was asleep when unknown assailants struck. The elderly man was awakened by the smell of smoke and crackling sounds coming from different sections of his house.
Acting swiftly despite his advanced age, the nonagenarian managed to find his way out of the burning structure before it was completely engulfed in flames. Neighbours, who were alerted by the commotion, rushed to the scene to offer assistance.
“We heard screams and saw flames rising from our neighbour’s house,” said one resident who requested anonymity. “The entire community is shocked that someone would target such an elderly person.”
Local police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, which they are treating as attempted murder. Preliminary findings suggest the attack was well-planned, with evidence indicating the perpetrators may have used accelerants to ensure the fire spread rapidly.
The Kirinyaga County Police Commander, speaking at the scene, condemned the attack and assured residents that law enforcement would leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of the perpetrators.
“This is a serious crime that could have resulted in loss of life,” the commander stated. “We have deployed our best detectives to investigate this matter, and we urge anyone with information to come forward.”
The incident has sparked discussions about the security of elderly residents in rural areas. Community leaders have called for increased police patrols and the establishment of neighbourhood watch programmes to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Social workers who visited the scene expressed concern about the targeting of vulnerable elderly individuals. They emphasised the need for community support systems to ensure the safety of older residents who live alone.
“This incident highlights the importance of checking on our elderly neighbours regularly,” said a local social worker. “We must work together as a community to protect our most vulnerable members.”
The victim is currently being housed by relatives as authorities assess the extent of damage to his home. Local leaders have promised to assist in rebuilding efforts once investigations are complete.
Community members have organised a meeting to discuss security measures and support systems for elderly residents. The gathering, scheduled for later this week, aims to develop practical solutions to prevent similar incidents.
The attack has also drawn attention from county officials, who have pledged to review security arrangements in rural areas. They have promised to work closely with local administration and police to enhance protection for vulnerable residents.
Meanwhile, forensic experts have collected samples from the scene as part of ongoing investigations. Police have appealed to anyone who might have witnessed suspicious activity in the area to report to the nearest police station.
Local administrators have urged residents to remain calm but vigilant. They have encouraged the community to report any suspicious individuals or activities to authorities promptly.
The incident has highlighted the broader issue of elder security in rural Kenya, with advocacy groups calling for stronger legal protections for older citizens. They argue that such attacks demonstrate the need for specific legislation addressing crimes against the elderly.
Health officials who examined the victim reported that he was in stable condition, though shaken by the ordeal. They praised his quick thinking and physical capability, which enabled him to escape the burning building.
The case has attracted attention from human rights organisations, who have condemned the attack and called for swift justice. They emphasise that elderly citizens have a right to live safely in their communities without fear of violence.
As investigations continue, police have increased patrols in the area and established a dedicated hotline for information related to the incident. They have assured residents that all leads will be thoroughly investigated.
Local leaders have also called for unity in the face of this incident, urging residents to support one another and maintain the peaceful nature of their community. They stress that such acts of violence have no place in their society.
As night falls in Kirigu Village, residents remain watchful, determined to protect their elderly neighbours from any future attempts at violence. The community’s response to this incident demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members, particularly the most vulnerable.
