Siaya Mourns as Entire Family Dies in Devastating Arson Attack
Sigomre, Siaya County
A horrifying incident has rocked the community of Sigomre, Siaya County, where a suspected arson attack claimed the lives of nine family members on Tuesday night. The victims, a man, his wife, and their seven children, were asleep in their home when it was allegedly set ablaze by unknown assailants.
The caretaker of the homestead, Sylvester Omondi, was the first to notice the fire. He reported waking up around midnight to the smell of petrol, only to discover the main house engulfed in flames and locked from the outside, preventing the family from escaping.
“I tried breaking down the door, but the fire had already spread. It was too late,” said Omondi in a shaken statement.
Locked Doors and Petrol Fumes Point to Foul Play
According to Area Assistant Chief Robert Odongo, the fire was reported around 1:00 a.m. Emergency responders arrived to find the house still ablaze, but with no survivors.
Odongo confirmed that preliminary investigations strongly suggest the incident was an act of arson, as the use of petrol and the house being locked externally were key indicators. “It’s a disturbing case that has shocked the entire community,” he said.
Authorities are now working to piece together the circumstances that led to this horrifying loss. Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have taken over the case as the search for suspects begins.
Community in Shock as Calls for Justice Rise
News of the tragedy has plunged the Sigomre area into mourning, with residents expressing grief and disbelief. Candlelight vigils and community prayers are already being organized as neighbors rally in support of surviving relatives.
Local leaders have condemned the attack and are calling on law enforcement to move swiftly. “This is beyond tragic—it is evil. We must find those behind this heinous act,” said a visibly emotional community elder.
Rising Concern Over Rural Security
The incident adds to a growing list of security concerns in rural Kenya, where acts of violence often go unreported or unresolved. Residents in Siaya County are now demanding improved patrols and better coordination between local authorities and security agencies.
As investigations continue, the country watches closely, hoping for answers and justice for the nine innocent lives lost in what appears to be a cold and calculated act of violence.
