CCTV Footage Reveals Students Behind Utumishi Fire That Killed 16
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Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary School fire CCTV footage has revealed students believed to have been involved in the deadly blaze that killed 16 learners, with investigations into the incident ongoing.
In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said it has achieved significant progress and a breakthrough into the tragic fire incident that occurred on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
DCI said a positive identification of the students who lit the fire has been realized after conducting a thorough, detailed forensic analysis of the CCTV footage recovered from the school, coupled with enhanced review at the Forensic Imaging and Acoustic Laboratory at DCI National Police Service Forensics Laboratory.
The Investigative Agency said analysis of CCTV footage from Utumishi Girls Senior Secondary School, conducted in collaboration with teachers, has enabled investigators to confirm the identity of seven students who allegedly participated in the arson before fleeing the scene.
Of the eight suspects previously arrested, six have been positively identified through the footage, while one student who had earlier been released to her parents remains at large as efforts to trace and arrest her continue.
“Further analysis of the CCTV footage, conducted in collaboration with the teachers, has enabled the investigation team to confirm the identity of seven students who participated in the arson before escaping the scene,”read the statement
“Of the eight suspects previously arrested, six have been positively identified and confirmed through the footage. The seventh identified student was among those earlier released to their parents and is currently not in custody. Efforts are now underway to trace and arrest her,” added the statement.
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Utumishi Girls Post-Mortems Confirm Cause of Death
Meanwhile, post-mortem examinations on the bodies of the 16 students were conducted at Naivasha Sub-County Referral Hospital Mortuary by a team of pathologists led by Dorothy Njeri.
The examinations confirmed that all the students died from severe burns sustained during the fire.
“All sixteen students died as a result of severe burns,” the DCI stated.
Due to the extent of the burns, investigators collected DNA reference samples from the families of the deceased students to assist in formally identifying the remains.
The Kenya Red Cross provided psychosocial support to grieving families during the post-mortem process.
Families were also allowed to view the bodies of their loved ones at the hospital.
The tragedy has left families, friends, and the school community mourning the loss of the students.
DCI Appeals for More Information
The DCI thanked parents, guardians, students, and members of the public for cooperating with investigators during the inquiry.
“We particularly appreciate the parents and students who have actively assisted the investigators by providing statements and supporting the review of evidence,” the agency said.
The DCI urged anyone with additional information that could assist the investigation to come forward.
Investigation Continues
The agency passed its condolences to the bereaved families and wished a quick recovery to students still receiving treatment.
“The DCI remains committed to conducting a thorough, professional, and impartial inquiry to deliver justice for the victims and their families,” the statement said.
Investigators said they will provide further updates as the case progresses.
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DCI Update on Utumishi Girls Fire Incident
PHOTO/DCI
