Eyewitnesses claim that Njuguna was not part of the protests and was caught in the crossfire as chaos unfolded in the area.
“He had just left school and was heading home when gunfire erupted,” said a local resident. “People started running in all directions. He was shot and fell to the ground. It was heartbreaking.”
Family members and classmates were left in shock after viewing his body at the Molo Sub County Hospital morgue.
The emotional scenes saw relatives weep uncontrollably as they demanded justice and accountability from law enforcement agencies.
Dennis Njuguna was described as a hardworking and disciplined student who had dreams of becoming an engineer.
His teachers at Njenga Karume Secondary School said he was a role model to his peers and had recently been preparing for the national exams scheduled for later this year.
The incident has intensified tensions in the region, with residents accusing the police of using excessive force against civilians, including minors. Human rights groups have condemned the killing and called for an immediate investigation.
“This is a blatant abuse of power and a gross violation of human rights,” said a representative from the Kenya Human Rights Commission. “The government must take responsibility for the actions of its officers.”
As news of Njuguna’s death spread, students and community members held a peaceful vigil outside the school in his memory, calling for justice and an end to police brutality.
Authorities are yet to release an official statement regarding the shooting, but pressure is mounting on the government to act swiftly and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The tragedy adds to the growing list of casualties reported amid the ongoing protests, which began as a youth-led movement against rising taxes and cost of living.
