Boniface Kariuki Died From Single Shot, Brain Riddled with Bullet Fragments

A harrowing autopsy has confirmed Boniface Kariuki, the street vendor fatally shot during Nairobi protests, died from severe head injuries caused by a single close-range bullet. Four fragments remain in his brain, underscoring the brutality. As two officers face court and IPOA investigates, the family demands swift justice ahead of his burial.

Brenda Ochieng'
July 4, 2025

Kenyan police speak to a man who appeared to be a vendor before one of the policemen, left, shot him during a protest in Nairobi, Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Credit: AP

The tragic death of Boniface Kariuki Mwangi, the young street vendor fatally shot during protests in Nairobi’s CBD, has been unequivocally confirmed by a comprehensive autopsy. The postmortem examination revealed a horrifying truth: Kariuki died from severe head injuries inflicted by a single, close-range gunshot, with four bullet fragments still tragically lodged in his brain. This grim finding provides irrefutable evidence of the brutal force used, intensifying the public outcry and the family's demand for justice.
The autopsy, a critical step in the ongoing investigation, was conducted by a dedicated team. Government pathologist Dr. Bernard Midia led the examination, alongside Dr. Peter Ndegwa, a pathologist appointed by Kariuki's grieving family. Their findings paint a stark picture of the violence that claimed Boniface's life. Doctors had previously managed to remove two other bullet fragments while he was still desperately clinging to life in the hospital, indicating the sheer impact of the initial shot.
Speaking after the autopsy, Dr. Peter Ndegwa conveyed the devastating extent of the injuries. "The brain is quite disturbed, and the chances of survival were very, very minimal," he stated, underlining the near-impossible battle Boniface faced. He further elaborated on the nature of the fragments: "The operation to remove the bullet particles was done, but some remained. The particles are rubbery and blackish, and the brain is quite destroyed." The shock was palpable even for the family spokesperson, Emily Wanjira, who expressed, "We are actually shocked that there were more bullet fragments." This revelation deepens the questions surrounding the intent and nature of the force used.
While the autopsy definitively confirmed the cause of death, it introduced a nuanced detail regarding the exact time of passing. Pathologists noted that Kariuki's brain may have ceased functioning even before his death was officially communicated to the family on Sunday, underscoring the severity of the initial injury. "His brain could have died in the course of the treatment," Dr. Ndegwa observed, hinting at the profound and irreversible damage sustained from the gunshot wound.
In a parallel development, two police officers linked to the shooting were arraigned in court on Thursday. However, their plea-taking was adjourned to next Thursday. Prosecutors requested additional time to complete investigations and file formal murder charges, citing new developments stemming from the ongoing probe. This delay, while frustrating for a family desperate for closure, is often a necessary step in complex cases to ensure a robust prosecution.
Officials from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) were present during the autopsy, underscoring the gravity and public interest surrounding Boniface's death. IPOA, the civilian body mandated to investigate police misconduct, is expected to forward its findings and recommendations to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). This collaboration is crucial for building a strong case that could lead to potential criminal charges against those responsible.

About the Author

Brenda Ochieng'

Brenda Ochieng'

Brenda Ochieng' is a passionate storyteller and film enthusiast. With a background in film and video production and she brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to her work. As a dedicated blogger, Brenda loves sharing insights on production techniques, blogging, and the art of storytelling. She is also a skilled editor and communicator, bringing a fresh perspective to her writing. Join Brenda as she delves into the captivating world of entertainment and news, sharing her knowledge and passion with you.

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