The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched investigations into the fatal shooting of renowned clinical psychologist Victoria Nthunya Mutiso, who was killed on the morning of July 29 in Nairobi’s Upper Hill area.
According to the DCI, preliminary investigations suggest the attack appears to have been targeted, coming less than a year after the fatal shooting of Charles Ong’ondo Were.
Doctor Shot While Travelling in Taxi
In a statement, the DCI said Dr Mutiso had requested an online taxi service before she sustained fatal gunshot injuries under circumstances that remain unclear.
Witnesses reported that a gunman riding on a motorcycle opened fire on the taxi she was travelling in after another vehicle allegedly intercepted it. Dr Mutiso died at the scene following the shooting.
“Immediately upon receiving the report, police officers, supported by Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) detectives, promptly visited, secured and processed the scene. Relevant forensic exhibits were recovered and documented for analysis, while witnesses were interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation,” the DCI said.
The agency added that detectives also visited the medical facility where the victim had been taken.
DCI Begins Forensic Investigations
Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) detectives have collected forensic evidence and interviewed witnesses as investigators work to establish the motive behind the killing and identify those responsible.
Authorities have not announced any arrests, and investigations remain ongoing.
A Leading Mental Health Researcher
Dr Mutiso was widely respected in Kenya’s mental health sector and served as the Head of Research at the Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation> (AMHRTF).
Her research focused on child and adolescent mental health, youth interventions, and improving access to mental healthcare for marginalized urban and rural communities.
She also co-led the NIHR-funded HOPE Project, which addressed homelessness and severe mental illness, and co-authored the book Your A–Z on Mental Health with David Ndetei.
The fatal shooting has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s public health and mental health communities as investigators continue searching for those behind the attack.