Tragedy in Chuka: Promising Nutrition Student Dies After Inhaling Poisonous Gas

By Dennis Elvis

Jane Wanjiru Kimani | Photo: Courtesy

A dark cloud hangs over Chuka University following the untimely death of Jane Wanjiru Kimani, a brilliant, cheerful and God-fearing student who was pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics under the School of Nursing and Public Health. Jane had just completed her studies last month and was looking forward to her graduation scheduled for November 25th, 2025.

The tragic incident occurred on the evening of Friday, May 23rd, 2025, in one of the hostels around Chuka Igamba Ng’ombe area, where Jane had continued to reside after completing her academic journey. Jane was in the process of relocating to her cousin’s house within the university vicinity, with the help of her best friend and course mate, Lucy Wanjiku.

As they began packing, Lucy and a bodaboda operator assisted in moving Jane’s bed outside. Meanwhile, Jane remained inside to disconnect her gas cylinder. It was at this moment that her life took a tragic turn. Jane informed her friend that while she was separating the gas burner from the gas cylinder, she noticed a leakage and immediately began feeling unwell, complaining of headaches. Despite feeling dizzy, she still managed to carry the cylinder outside.

Later that evening, the headaches intensified. Jane requested Lucy to purchase some painkillers (“Mara moja”) from a nearby chemist. Upon returning, Lucy found Jane wailing in pain, clutching her head in agony. Alarmed by the worsening condition, Lucy rushed her friend to St. Lucy Hospital in Ndagani. There, Jane was quickly referred to Chuka General Hospital for more specialized treatment.

According to Chuka University Student Welfare Director, Stanley Ng’ang’a, Lucy narrated that they arrived at Chuka General Hospital around 10pm. Jane was taken into the emergency room but soon began convulsing. Medical officers administered some medication, and plans were made to admit her. Due to work commitments the following morning, Lucy contacted Jane’s parents in Kiambaa, Kiambu County, informing them of their daughter’s condition. The worried parents immediately began their overnight journey to Chuka.

However, before they could arrive, tragedy struck. At around 2am on Saturday, May 24th, 2025, as Jane was being moved from the emergency room to the hospital ward, she passed away.

When her parents arrived at Chuka General Hospital at around 8am, they were met with the heartbreaking news that their beloved daughter had succumbed to the poisonous gas exposure.

Jane Wanjiru Kimani | Photo: Courtesy

A postmortem report confirmed that Jane’s blood had been contaminated by toxic fumes released during the gas leakage. Her body was later moved to St. Teresa General Hospital mortuary in Kikuyu, Kiambu County.

The sudden death of Jane Wanjiru has sent waves of shock and sorrow across the Chuka University community. Dean of Students Dr. Benjamin Kanga confirmed the tragic passing and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Speaking with a heavy heart, Chuka University Student Association (CUSA) Chairperson Ben Geoffrey Onyango, popularly known as Jakatoo, paid a glowing tribute to Jane. “Jane was a hardworking lady, a very happy soul. Her happiness could be seen from her face. One most important thing about Jane was that she knew God. We are deeply saddened by her premature death, and as the student council, we send our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time,” he said.

The Student Welfare docket, under the leadership of Stanley Ng’ang’a, has since taken charge of burial plans and is in constant communication with Jane’s family to support them during this trying moment.

A memorial service in honor of Jane Wanjiru Kimani will be held on Thursday, May 29th, 2025, at Gate A in Chuka University, at 7pm with a candle-lighting ceremony as students and friends gather to celebrate her life and bid her farewell.

Jane will be laid to rest on Friday, May 30th, 2025. The funeral service will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Upper Kabete, Kiambu County. After the service, her body will be transported to her final resting place in Mai Mahiu, along the Nakuru highway.

As Chuka University mourns the loss of one of its brightest stars, we remember Jane Wanjiru Kimani not just as a student, but as a friend, a sister, and a beacon of light whose warmth, intelligence, and faith touched many lives.

Rest in peace, Jane. Your smile, your spirit, and your faith will never be forgotten.