Family of Four Perishes in Suspected Domestic Dispute Tragedy in Kiganjo, Thika

A family of four in Thika has been wiped out in a heartbreaking incident believed to have stemmed from prolonged domestic disputes.

The tragedy unfolded on the night of Friday, June 5, 2026, at Blue Oasis area of Kiganjo, Thika, when what initially appeared to be a domestic disagreement turned fatal.

According to neighbours, the couple had reportedly been experiencing serious marital challenges for some time, with frequent quarrels that were said to have negatively affected their two young children.

The family comprised Kamau Kamoko, a plumber originally from Kiarutara in Gatanga, Murang’a County, his wife Phyllis Wambui, a food vendor in Thika Town who hailed from Mwago in Gatanga and their two sons, Tallan (6) and Terrence (4).

Neighbours say the couple allegedly got into an altercation on the fateful night. While it remains unclear what exactly transpired inside the house, which had been locked from the inside, the incident would ultimately claim the lives of all four family members.

Residents became alarmed after hearing a commotion from the house. Moments later, a fire broke out, sending thick smoke billowing into the air and causing panic among neighbours.

In a desperate rescue effort, residents rushed to the scene and attempted to gain access to the house. By the time they managed to break in, Kamau and one of the children had sustained severe burn injuries. Despite efforts to save them, both later succumbed to their injuries.

Phyllis and the second child were rescued and rushed to hospital in critical condition. Phyllis was later transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Gatundu Level 5 Hospital, where she sadly succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment.

In a devastating turn of events, the surviving child, who had been referred to the Kenyatta National Hospital ICU, also lost the battle for life.

The deaths of the mother and the second child brought the death toll to four, wiping out the entire family.

The incident has left neighbours, friends and relatives in shock, with many describing the family as loving and united whenever they appeared in public, making the tragedy even more difficult to comprehend.

As investigations continue, the incident has reignited concerns over unresolved domestic conflicts and the devastating consequences they can have on families, particularly children who often become the silent victims of disputes behind closed doors.

Residents have since called for greater awareness on mental health, counselling and conflict resolution, urging couples facing domestic challenges to seek help early before disagreements escalate into tragedy.