U.S. citizen killed in Garissa county, northeastern Kenya
The 25-year-old, an American citizen of Somali origin, was killed in Bula Mzuri village in an attack that has left relatives and residents reeling.
by Maxwell AmungaMonday June 1, 2026
A crime scene tape in a past scene. Photo Canva
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A U.S. citizen was stabbed to death in broad daylight in Garissa County, bringing a tragic end to what should have been a celebratory return home from the United States.
The 25-year-old, an American citizen of Somali origin, was killed in Bula Mzuri village in an attack that has left relatives and residents reeling.
Witnesses say the assault happened openly in the middle of the day, a fact that has stunned the community and intensified concern over security in the area.
“He was stabbed in broad daylight, and that is what has left everyone in complete shock. We cannot understand how such a violent act could happen so openly in the middle of the day,” stated one resident.
His family says the man suspected of carrying out the killing is a known gang member who has long caused fear in Bula Mzuri village, and they want him arrested immediately.
Three days after the killing, the family says no arrests have been made, even though they say they have already identified the suspect for authorities — a delay that has only sharpened their anger.
“It’s really disappointing just to know for the last three days nothing has been done while we already fronted names of the suspect who is a criminal, a young criminal guy well known in those areas,” a family member said.
Friends and relatives describe the deceased as a young man who was close to his family and community, someone remembered for his quiet confidence, kindness and sense of purpose, while also urging investigators to move quickly.
Backed by the wider community, the family is pressing officials in Garissa County to act fast and ensure the suspect is brought to justice without delay.
“We are here demanding justice for him, the entire family is here, the entire community is here. He was a great kid, a role model for his siblings, and an amazing person,” another family member said.
Security agencies had not publicly responded to the matter by the time of publication, and neither had the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi since the incident became public.
Garissa County has long been identified by the National Crime Research Centre (NCRC) as a hub for organized youth gangs, with violent crime continuing to pose a serious problem for both residents and law enforcement.
Groups such as Squad Chafu, previously known as Hori Moyan, and the Gaza Family have established a feared foothold in the region, drawing in teenagers and young people.
Often armed with machetes and knives, the gangs have been linked to muggings, extortion and robberies targeting residents and businesses, prompting periodic crackdowns by security commissioners and local leaders aimed at breaking their networks.
