Grief as retired teacher found murdered in Gatundu North
By People Daily Digital Reporter, March 12, 2026Grief and shock have engulfed Nguna village in Gatundu North following the brutal murder of a retired teacher inside his home on Wednesday night.
The victim, identified as Francis Kagotho, is reported to have been tied with ropes by unknown assailants on Wednesday night, March 11, 2026, before being killed in his house under circumstances that have left residents in disbelief.
At the time of the incident, Kagotho’s ailing wife was away at their daughter’s home in Nairobi.
The retired teacher was reportedly left at the homestead in the company of a few farm workers.
Suspicion has since been raised after the workers fled the compound during the night with all their belongings shortly after the incident.
Residents’ reaction
Residents who gathered at the homestead described Kagotho as a respected elder and a pillar of the community who had dedicated much of his life to serving and uplifting society.
Jeniffer Njeri, a resident, said the village woke up to shocking news that has left many struggling to come to terms with the loss.
“He was a peaceful and respected man in this community. Many people looked up to him because of the role he played in educating and mentoring others. His death has left us heartbroken,” she said.
According to another resident, Kimani Gachihi, the murder has instilled fear among locals who are now calling for swift investigations.
“We are deeply disturbed by what has happened here. We are urging security agencies to move with speed and ensure those responsible are arrested. Such an incident should never happen again in our village,” he said.
Discovering the incidence
The incident is said to have been discovered on Thursday morning by a woman who had gone to work on Kagotho’s farm. She raised the alarm after finding his body inside the house.
Residents also claimed that the farmworkers may have attempted to flee with some household items, including a television set, but their plan failed after they were unable to fit it into a sack they had prepared.
Area Assistant Chief Samuel Munyiri confirmed the incident, assuring residents that investigations have already been launched.
“We have reported the matter to the relevant security agencies and investigations are ongoing. I want to assure the residents that no stone will be left unturned in establishing what happened and bringing those responsible to justice,” Munyiri said.
Police have since taken over the scene and launched a manhunt for the suspects as the community continues to mourn the loss of a man many described as an invaluable pillar of Nguna village.