The incident, which occurred on the night of January 1, has shocked residents and raised new concerns about the rising number of firearm-related cases involving police officers.
Reports gathered from security sources indicate that the confrontation happened outside a popular pub in the outskirts of Naivasha.
According to preliminary findings, Corporal Collins Kochei, who served at Tangi Tano Police Post in Gilgil Sub-county, arrived at the pub carrying his official AK-47 rifle. What began as an ordinary night quickly escalated into a deadly encounter.
Witnesses said that tension built between the officer and 34-year-old bar owner Lucy Wanjiru Njoroge shortly before gunshots rang out.
Moments later, Wanjiru was found with serious gunshot injuries on her chest and right thigh. Investigators believe the officer shot her at close range.
After the shooting, Corporal Kochei reportedly turned the weapon on himself. Police say he fired a single round through his chin, with the bullet exiting through his forehead.
Residents who rushed to the area alerted authorities and helped rush the victims to Nakuru Provincial General Hospital.
Doctors confirmed that Corporal Kochei died on arrival, while Wanjiru was admitted in critical condition. Medical teams continue to monitor her as police try to piece together the events leading to the incident.
Officers from Kongoni Police Station and detectives from the Sub-county Criminal Investigations Office visited the scene shortly after the shooting.
They secured the area, collected spent cartridges and recorded statements from witnesses who were still visibly shaken. Forensic experts also examined the surroundings to understand the officer’s movements before the gunfire.
Detectives have now opened a full investigation to determine what triggered the confrontation.
Early suggestions point to a possible personal disagreement, though officers say they will rely on forensic evidence and witness accounts before drawing conclusions.
The body of the late officer has been transferred to the Nakuru Provincial General Hospital mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is expected to help determine his state at the time of the shooting.
This incident adds to growing public concern over cases involving armed officers in entertainment spots.
Just months ago, another officer in Uasin Gishu was arrested after allegedly opening fire in a bar owned by his wife, killing two people.
Community leaders in Naivasha are now urging authorities to act swiftly and ensure such tragedies do not become common.
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