A somber cloud hangs over Matongo village in Nyamokoroto sub-location, Masaba North, Nyamira County, after a tragic fire claimed the lives of four members of the same family in the early hours of Friday morning.
According to initial police reports and confirmation from area Assistant Chief Evans Torore, the victims — a man, his wife, their adult daughter, and a three-month-old grandchild — were burnt beyond recognition after a mysterious inferno engulfed their home while they were asleep.
The charred remains of the family were discovered inside the rubble, sparking grief and shock throughout the quiet rural community.
“It’s an extremely painful incident. We received a call from neighbors at around 2:00 AM. By the time locals and our team arrived, the house was completely ablaze. Nothing could be salvaged,” said Assistant Chief Torore.
Police have since cordoned off the scene and launched investigations to determine the cause of the fire, which remains unclear. Officers from Masaba North Police Division have been recording statements from neighbors and potential witnesses. So far, no foul play has been officially ruled out, although speculation among residents ranges from an electrical fault to suspected arson.
“Our forensic team will be examining the site thoroughly. We are not ruling out any possibilities, including criminal activity,” said a senior police officer on the scene, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case.
The bodies of the victims are expected to be moved to the Nyamira County Referral Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examinations.
Residents described the deceased as a well-known and peaceful family. The father, who worked as a small-scale farmer, was said to be active in local community affairs, while the mother and daughter were involved in church and women’s group activities. The baby, a recent addition to the family, had reportedly been brought home for a short visit by the daughter.
“We are still in disbelief. The family was just here during church service last weekend,” said a tearful neighbor.
The tragedy has prompted calls from locals and leaders for improved emergency response systems in rural areas, including the establishment of firefighting units and emergency hotlines.
As of the time of reporting, Nyamira County authorities had not issued an official statement or visited the scene. Residents are calling on Governor Amos Nyaribo’s administration to not only support the grieving family with funeral arrangements but also implement preventive measures such as public awareness on fire safety and subsidized installation of smoke detectors in homes.
This incident adds to a growing list of fire-related tragedies in rural Kenya, where access to firefighting services remains limited. In many cases, homes are built using highly flammable materials, and residents rely on kerosene lamps, charcoal stoves, and makeshift electrical connections — all potential fire hazards.
