Heartbreak has struck a family in Runyenjes, Embu County, after the death of their 15-year-old son, Shelton Caleb, a Form Two student at St Francis Kanja Secondary School.
Shelton’s promising young life was cut short following injuries sustained in a reported altercation with a schoolmate earlier this week. What began as a seemingly minor incident spiraled into a tragedy that has left the family searching for answers.
According to Shelton’s father, Kiema Luke, the teen was injured in the arm during the confrontation and was rushed to a local hospital on the evening of Tuesday, January 21.
By the next day, the family was asked to take him home, but his condition deteriorated rapidly. Shelton was eventually transferred to Radiant Hospital in Nairobi, where he passed away while awaiting surgery.
“His death came as a devastating blow. We are still struggling to understand what exactly happened to our son,” said Kiema, speaking through tears.
Efforts to obtain clarity from the school have only added to the family’s pain. Despite an earlier agreement between Shelton’s mother, Leah Kiema, and the school’s principal to meet, the family was met with locked gates when they arrived. Attempts to contact the principal went unanswered.
READ ALSO: Boost Kisumu Central commissions classrooms Manyatta school
“I called and sent messages, but they ignored me. The lack of communication is suspicious, and it feels like there’s something they’re hiding,” Leah said, her voice trembling with frustration.
The family has accused the school of withholding crucial information about the incident. “We just want the truth. We cannot mourn in peace until we know what really happened,” added a distraught family spokesperson.
Investigations underway
The Embu OCPD, Anthony Maina, confirmed that a report on Shelton’s death has been filed and assured the family that investigations are ongoing.
“We are working to uncover the facts surrounding the incident. A post-mortem will determine the cause of death,” Maina stated.
As they await the results, Shelton’s grieving family is calling on authorities and well-wishers to help uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.
“We don’t want any other family to go through this nightmare. Our son deserved better. The school must be held accountable for failing to protect him,” the family said in a joint statement.
Efforts to speak to the principal were futile as the phone was off.
By Brian Kaleti
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news
