Gospel singer Rachel Wandeto died from severe burn injuries after being attacked in Nairobi, a government pathologist confirmed on Friday, May 22.
The High Court has extended the detention period for key suspects in the case.
Wandeto passed away at Kenyatta National Hospital following an ambush in Mwiki, Kasarani Sub-County, where attackers doused her with a chemical and set her on fire, according to police reports. She had been undergoing treatment when her condition proved fatal.
Government pathologist Johansen Oduor conducted the post-mortem examination at Kenyatta National Hospital Mortuary and determined that burns covering approximately 85 percent of her body led to her death.
He elaborated that such extensive damage compromises the skin’s protective functions. “There were extensive burns across the body, with 85 percent of the skin surface area affected, resulting in fatal complications,” Oduor explained.
Additionally, he noted, “The skin is the body’s largest organ, containing essential electrolytes, water, and proteins that support bodily functions. When such severe burns occur, serious complications often follow.”
Oduor mentioned that investigators had taken swabs for forensic testing to check if Wandeto had been sexually assaulted prior to the attack. “We cannot confirm whether sexual assault occurred in this incident,” he stated.
The autopsy was witnessed by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ Homicide Unit.
The case has generated public discussion with allegations suggesting Wandeto was targeted due to her tattoo of President William Ruto, which showed political support. However, detectives have not established a clear motive.
On Thursday, prosecutors presented suspect Josiah Njeru Njiri before the Makadara Law Courts, requesting additional time for detention.
Magistrate James Juma Mayiah approved a 10-day detention order and instructed that Njiri be held at Kilimani Police Station. The case will be revisited on June 3.
Authorities have identified Njiri as a taxi driver who regularly transported Wandeto to different locations. Police informed the court that he was the last individual known to have contacted her and was seen near her residence shortly before the incident.
Investigators are also examining potential financial motives, looking into whether the singer’s public political engagements and apparent financial connections made her vulnerable to criminal elements.
Wandeto’s remains have been handed over to her family, who have requested a comprehensive investigation from authorities. “We will proceed with arranging our sister’s burial while we trust that justice will be served for our loved one,” stated family representative Susan Wandeto.