Residents of Limuru, Kiambu County, were left in shock after a man collapsed and died while in a toilet under unclear circumstances. The incident occurred shortly after he returned home from Kitui, where he had reportedly sought spiritual intervention for his struggling business.
The deceased, identified as 50-year-old Paul Kimani Karanja, had arrived at his home on the night of Friday, August 15, 2025. Upon arrival, he informed his wife that he had travelled to Kitui in search of prayers to help salvage his butchery business, which had been performing poorly. According to accounts from family members and neighbours, he appeared exhausted but did not complain of any health-related issues at the time.
Shortly after settling in, Karanja excused himself to use the toilet. Hours later, when family members noticed he had not returned, they went to check on him only to find him unresponsive. Efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful, and it was quickly established that he had died.
The sudden death has raised questions within the community, with many wondering whether it was linked to his recent trip to Kitui for prayers. His body was later removed from the scene and taken to the mortuary for post-mortem examination to determine the actual cause of death.
Police officers who visited the home confirmed that investigations are ongoing. Part of the probe will include visiting the church in Kitui where the deceased had sought spiritual assistance. Authorities are keen to establish whether there were any underlying circumstances surrounding his visit, given the mystery shrouding his death.
Locals described Karanja as a hardworking man who had been battling financial difficulties in recent months due to his failing butchery business. His decision to seek divine intervention was seen as a sign of desperation to turn his life around. Unfortunately, his sudden passing has left his family in grief and the community in shock.
As the post-mortem examination awaits, speculation remains rife on whether his death was due to natural causes, underlying health conditions, or other unexplained factors. Police have urged the public to remain patient as investigations continue, assuring that the findings will shed light on the tragic incident.
