Homicide detectives take over probe into Rachel Wandeto's petrol attack killing

According to a statement issued by the DCI, preliminary investigations indicate that the singer was attacked on the night of May 16, 2026, while walking home along 11th Street near Obama Road in Mwiki.

Investigators say the victim encountered three men who allegedly assaulted her before dousing her with a flammable substance and setting her ablaze. The suspects reportedly fled the scene immediately after the attack.

Wandeto was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital with approximately 75 per cent burn injuries. She succumbed to the injuries on Monday, May 18 while undergoing treatment.

The DCI described the incident as a heinous crime and said detectives are pursuing all leads to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.

“Detectives are tirelessly working to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this heinous crime and to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in its planning and execution,” the agency said in the statement.

The investigative agency further condemned acts of violence and assured the family and the public that the investigations would be conducted thoroughly and impartially.

The DCI has appealed to members of the public with information that could assist investigators to report to the nearest police station or share details anonymously through its toll-free hotline and WhatsApp platform.