Homa Bay County is reeling from a tragic incident after an eight-year-old Grade 4 pupil was found dead in a suspected suicide case. The child, identified as Emmanuel, was discovered on Wednesday morning hanging from a mango tree in Kogudi village, North Kamagak location.
According to Area Chief Benson Midigo, the boy’s lifeless body was found dangling from the tree, sending shockwaves through the community. The administrator revealed that Emmanuel’s father, who has been solely taking care of him and his older brother, had left home in the morning after the child had supposedly gone to school.
“When he came home from work, he found his eldest son searching for Emmanuel using a flashlight. The boy was missing, and they immediately started looking for him,” said Chief Midigo.
The search for the young boy continued late into the night, but they could not find him. Assuming that Emmanuel had gone to attend a funeral ceremony in the neighborhood, the father and son decided to retire for the night, hoping the boy would return by morning.
However, the worst news awaited them. Early on Wednesday morning, the elder brother was sent to check if Emmanuel had spent the night at the funeral gathering. Barely ten minutes later, a neighbor called the father with the devastating news that Emmanuel’s body had been found hanging on a tree in a nearby farm.
The circumstances surrounding the young boy’s death remain unclear. Chief Midigo stated that there were no signs of distress or conflict within the family that might have led to such a drastic action. He added that investigations into the suspected suicide had already been launched by the police to determine the exact cause of death.
“We are yet to understand what led the child to take such action. The father had not reported any issues with him. We urge parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and create an environment where they can freely express themselves,” said the Chief.
The incident has left the community in mourning, with many struggling to comprehend how such a young child could end his life. Residents expressed their grief and concern, calling for increased awareness on mental health issues affecting children.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the need for greater vigilance in children’s emotional well-being. Authorities and local leaders are urging parents, teachers, and caregivers to foster open communication with young ones and look out for any signs of distress.
Police continue their investigations as the community mourns the untimely loss of a promising young life.
