Irene Mbugua: Tragedy as Kenyan Caregiver, 48, Is Killed by Patient in UK
- Irene Mbugua from Mataara in Gatundu, Kiambu county, sadly went from being a helper to a victim in the UK
- The middle-aged woman was killed by one of the patients she served with a lot of dedication and care
- Her family and friends in Kenya and abroad are devastated, and Fellow Nurses Africa shared a statement and asked well-wishers to rally behind her family
UK: Family and friends of 48-year-old Irene Mbugua have been thrown into mourning after the 48-year-old caregiver from Kenya was tragically killed by a male patient she was caring for.
Source: Facebook
The incident occurred on June 22, 2025, and its violent nature sent shockwaves through her family and the African caregiving community.
It emerged that the male patient under her care turned against her, and her family and fellow caregivers learnt of her death a day later after frantic but unsuccessful attempts by the employment agency to contact her.
Eyebrows went up when she failed to file her mandatory daily work report, as she had never failed to do it.
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Where is Mataara in Kenya?
Irene, who hailed from Mataara in Gatundu, Kiambu county, was a devoted single mother of four and a respected professional who had worked in the UK for two years. She was admired for her kindness and dedication.
"My condolences to her family and friends, this is quite unfortunate for sure," said Kamau James Waweru on Facebook.
Irene was the beloved sister of Baba Mbugua (formerly of Coventry) and a cherished member of the Mbugua family.
How can Mbugua's family be reached?
Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, her brother, Gilbert, said that they are not going to repatriate her body back to Kenya, but would bury her in the UK.
"Her children are there, so we are not going to bring her here. The family will travel to the UK for the burial," he said.
Fellow Nurses Africa, the independent voice of African nursing, which educates, informs, and supports the nursing profession, also talked about one of their own.
The community urged the caregiving community to support the Mbugua family and shared contact details for support and condolences: Baba Mbugua (Gilbert Mbugua) at 0745 171319, George Mbugua at 0727 297219, and Evalyne Mbugua at 0712 061630.
Source: Facebook
What was Fellow Nurses' reaction?
"The caregiving community is encouraged to reach out, offer prayers, and provide support to help the family cope with this devastating loss," read the statement by the African body.
"This tragic incident raises critical questions about the safety of caregivers, particularly those working with vulnerable patients. Fellow Nurses Africa calls for increased awareness and protective measures to ensure the well-being of healthcare workers worldwide," said the community.
The community also hailed Irene’s legacy as a dedicated caregiver and loving mother, saying it will live on. They said that her sacrifice highlights the risks caregivers face daily and the need for better support systems.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to her four children, family, and friends. May her soul rest in eternal peace," read their statement.
The incident is currently under investigation by West Midlands Police.
Nurse found dead in house
In another story, the late Miriam, the wife of Enock Melly, was found dead in her house. The two shared a child and lived in a rental residence near Kabianga University.
The departed mum of one had just landed a job at Kabianga University, where she was going to work as a nurse. She was allegedly killed by her husband.
Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Daktari Kelvin Kipchirchir Ufa said Melly reportedly called Miriam's parents after committing the gruesome crime.
Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
