Authorities have confirmed that the postmortem examination of 16-year-old Form Three student Silvester Muigai showed he died from a single gunshot wound to the head during the June 9, 2026 protests in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.
The report states that the small-arm bullet recovered from his skull has been transferred to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for further inquiry into the alleged shooting incident involving police officers.
Muigai, the eldest child in a family of four, had reportedly gone out at about 5:30pm as demonstrators began gathering in Nanyuki town.
What began as a protest later turned into violent clashes between police officers and demonstrators, with running battles breaking out in different parts of the town.
It was amid the disorder that the 16-year-old was shot in the head and was later reported to have died instantly at the scene.
Silvester, described as an innocent bystander, was caught up in the chaos that unfolded.
In a further tragedy, it has also emerged that the teenager’s single mother had recently lost her home in a fire late last year.
Reports say she is now seeking urgent financial and material assistance to help her manage the loss of her son.
The incident has increased scrutiny as investigations continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Earlier reports said that, before the protests, a relative stated on Thursday, June 11, that Muigai had been told not to attend school because demonstrations had blocked the road used by students.
The unrest has taken a tragic turn, drawing public concern and demands for investigations into the use of force during the demonstrations.
The grieving mother is now seeking justice for her son and wants authorities to fully investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.