A routine family meeting in Kakamega South Sub-County, Kenya turned into a shocking tragedy after a woman allegedly poured boiling water on her husband, his newly introduced second wife, and their 16-month-old child, leaving two victims with severe burn injuries.
According to local media, the incident occurred on the morning of June 1, 2026, in Shivagala village. Police reported that Danston Isundwa Mmbehi was at home with his wife, Mary Mmbone Khalechi, when a woman identified as Fransisca Makhokha arrived carrying a young child.
What began as a family discussion took a dark turn when Danston introduced Fransisca to Mary as his newly married second wife and revealed that they had a 16-month-old child together. According to a report filed at Malaika Police Station, Mary appeared calm and composed despite the revelation. She allegedly welcomed Fransisca and the child into the house before excusing herself to the kitchen, where she seemed to be preparing tea.
Moments later, the atmosphere changed dramatically. Investigators say Mary returned carrying a sufuria filled with boiling water and allegedly poured its contents onto Danston, who was holding the toddler against his chest at the time. The scalding water struck all three victims, causing panic and screams inside the home.
Neighbors rushed to the scene as the injured family members sought help. Danston and the child sustained severe burn injuries and were rushed to Kakamega General Hospital for emergency treatment. While the father is receiving treatment, the 16-month-old child remains hospitalized in serious condition, raising concern among relatives and community members.
Residents described the incident as heartbreaking, particularly given the involvement of an innocent child caught in the middle of a domestic dispute. In the aftermath, the suspect allegedly fled from the homestead before police arrived. Her whereabouts remain unknown.
Police have launched a manhunt and are appealing to members of the public with information that could assist in locating the suspect to come forward. Investigations are ongoing as detectives work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
