12 year old girl shot dead at home while watching TV

Katewinslet Oyato 

In the quiet village of Ndumberi, Kiambu County, a family’s evening turned into a nightmare when 12-year-old Bridgit Njoki was fatally struck by a stray bullet while watching television in her home.

The incident occurred on Monday evening kilometers, from the main road where Saba Saba protests were unfolding.

Bridgit, a Grade Seven pupil, had been enjoying a peaceful moment with her family when the bullet pierced their living room wall and struck her in the head. 

Despite being rushed to St. Brigid’s Hospital, she succumbed to her injuries while doctors attempted to resuscitate her.

Her death is one of six confirmed fatalities in Kiambu linked to police shootings during the protests, which were marked by calls for government accountability and economic justice. 

Among the other victims was Dennis Mutuma Mwangi, 23, who was shot in the neck outside his home, and Laban Kamau, who was killed in Ndumberi village. 

Families insist their loved ones were not part of the protests and are demanding justice, compensation, and an independent investigation into the use of live ammunition by police.

Former Kiambu MP Jude Njomo visited the grieving families and condemned the police response, calling for an international inquiry. “How can the police investigate themselves after killing young people?”

The families have also voiced frustration over being charged mortuary and post-mortem fees, despite the deaths being caused by law enforcement. Many are struggling to cover burial costs while grappling with the trauma of losing their children.

Her story is a haunting reminder of the cost of unchecked force and the fragility of safety even within the walls of one’s home.

As Kenya mourns, the question remains on who will speak for the innocent, and when will justice bemore than a promise.