The University of Eldoret fraternity has been thrown into mourning after a male student was discovered dead in his hostel room, with police suspecting carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause.
According to Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi, the learner is believed to have slept in a poorly ventilated room while using a charcoal stove, leading to the inhalation of toxic fumes.
“The incident occurred overnight. We suspect that he lit the jiko to keep warm, unaware of the risk,” Mwanthi said, confirming that his fellow students found him unresponsive early in the morning.
Emergency responders later pronounced him dead, and his body was transferred to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem to determine the exact cause.
Authorities are withholding the student’s identity until his family has been notified.
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The University of Eldoret issued a brief statement expressing sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a “devastating loss” to the institution.
The administration urged learners to prioritise safety and avoid using stoves or open fires in enclosed spaces.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. Counselling services have been made available to students affected by the tragedy,” the statement read.
With temperatures remaining low in different parts of the country, experts continue to caution against using charcoal jikos indoors without ventilation due to the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
Commander Mwanthi echoed this warning, stating, “Please avoid sleeping in closed rooms with burning charcoal. It may seem harmless, but it’s a silent killer.”
By Joseph Mambili
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