The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Homicide supervisor Martin Nyuguto has verified that DNA samples have successfully matched all 16 bodies recovered from the fatal dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil.
Family members and relatives of the deceased gathered at the Naivasha Sub-County Hospital mortuary, where they are awaiting government instructions on the release of the remains for burial.
The body of one victim, Zuhura Ramah, is scheduled to be released today, Saturday, June 6, 2026, after preparation at Mbagathi Hospital, allowing for her burial rites in her home region of Kwale in accordance with Islamic customs.
The catastrophic blaze began in the early hours of Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Utumishi Girls Senior School in Gilgil, Nakuru County. The fire quickly spread to the upper floor of a dormitory containing more than 135 bunk beds, trapping numerous students inside.
Sixteen students lost their lives, mostly from severe burns and smoke inhalation, while 79 others suffered injuries, some after leaping from the first floor in frantic efforts to escape the flames.
The victims were too charred to be visually identified, making DNA testing necessary for formal identification. Following the incident, bodies were moved to the Naivasha mortuary for autopsies. A team of pathologists, under the supervision of DCI Homicide Director Martin Nyuguto, collected DNA samples from families to compare against the remains.
The DCI assumed control of the investigation, classifying it as a case of homicide and arson.
CCTV recordings and witness statements led investigators to believe that the fire was intentionally set due to conflicts over changed examination dates and school fees for a cultural event.
In the days following the fire, seven students were taken into custody as primary suspects. They were presented before the Naivasha Law Courts, where the court refused their bail and mandated their detention at a juvenile remand facility to continue the investigation.