A somber mood engulfed Ndumbeiri area of Kiambu just in the outskirts of Nairobi as schoolmates, friends and relatives laid to rest 14-year-old Bridget Njoki who was tragically killed by a stray bullet during the seventh of July protests.
Bridget Njoki was at home watching TV in Ndumbeiri, Kiambu County, on Saba Saba day (July 7, 2025) when a stray bullet fired by police pierced her skull abruptly ending her life.
According to eyewitness reports Bridget was sitting in her living room watching TV around 6:20 pm when gunfire erupted nearby. A bullet pierced the roof of her house and struck her in the head. Her mother, Lucy Ngugi, initially thought she had suffered an electric shock but soon realized the it was more than that.
Bridget was rushed to St Brigid’s Hospital, where doctors attempted to resuscitate her. Unfortunately, she was declared dead after several attempts to revive her failed.
Immediately news of the shooting were broadcast the incident sparked renewed demonstrations in Kiambu town, with residents expressing anger over reported police brutality. The police had set up a roadblock nearby earlier that day in anticipation of possible unrest.
The International Justice Mission (IJM) has launched an investigation into the protest killings, including Bridget’s case. IJM’s Country Director, Vincent Chahale, has condemned the excessive use of force by police and called for thorough investigations and prosecution of those responsible.
Bridget’s death is not an isolated incident. According to IJM, at least 15 people were killed during the Saba Saba protests, and many more were injured. Other victims include Dennis Mutuma Mwangi, 23, who was shot dead outside his home, and Laban Kamau, who was also shot in the head.
President William Ruto has warned against inciting violence, while former Kiambu MP Jude Njomo has demanded an independent and international inquiry into the killings, questioning the police’s ability to investigate themselves.
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