Father John Maina Ndegwa, a Catholic priest from Nyandarua County, Kenya, was tragically found dead on May 15, 2025, along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway near Kikopey, approximately 50 kilometers from his parish at Igwamiti Catholic Church. His death occurred just weeks after he hosted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during the church’s 25th anniversary celebrations on April 27.
A post-mortem examination conducted by government pathologist Dr. Titus Ngulungu at Pope Benedict Catholic Hospital mortuary revealed that Father Maina died from multiple gunshot wounds, including a fatal shot to the head that severely damaged his skull. Additional gunshot wounds were found on other parts of his body, and signs of decomposition were present, indicating that his body had been at the location for some time before discovery.
According to reports, Father Maina was found unconscious and severely injured by a boda boda rider, who then transported him to St. Joseph’s Mission Hospital in Gilgil. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after admission. Before losing consciousness, he reportedly informed the rider that he had been abducted from Nyahururu.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is actively investigating the case. Preliminary findings suggest that Father Maina was being trailed by individuals allegedly demanding a share of funds donated during the recent church event attended by Gachagua. The priest had reportedly expressed fears for his life prior to the incident, although no formal report was filed.
Detectives are collaborating with telecommunications company Safaricom to trace Father Maina’s last communications and movements. His vehicle, a Subaru Forester, remains missing and is suspected to have been used to transport his body to the location where it was found.
The death of Father Maina has sent shockwaves through the local community and the Catholic faithful. Nyandarua Senator John Methu expressed deep sorrow, recalling the priest’s recent hosting of Gachagua and other leaders during the parish’s family day. Over the weekend, clergy and parishioners gathered at St. Louis Church in Igwamiti to pray for his soul.
Father Maina will be laid to rest on Thursday at Tabor Hill Catholic Cemetery in Ol Joro Orok Constituency. The investigation into his death continues, with authorities urging anyone with information to come forward.
