Tragedy in Lugari as Missing Munyuki Secondary School Principal Found Dead in River Chikali
LUGARI, KAKAMEGA COUNTY — The Lugari community is reeling in shock and grief after the body suspected to be that of Mr. Simon Isiaho Shange, the Principal of Munyuki Secondary School, was retrieved from River Chikali on 8th November 2025 Saturday morning, ending a tense six-day search.
According to preliminary reports, the body was found mutilated and beyond recognition, raising further questions about the mysterious circumstances surrounding the principal’s disappearance. Local authorities and police officers from Lumakanda have since launched a full-scale investigation into the incident.
The recovery was made by search teams and local residents who had been combing the river banks since the educator went missing on Monday, following a reported road accident.
The Disappearance That Shocked Lugari
Mr. Shange was last seen on Monday morning, reportedly driving towards Turbo to refuel before proceeding to collect KCSE examination papers. Witnesses say his car was involved in an accident near Munyuki, but he was nowhere to be found when rescuers arrived at the scene.
Since that day, his disappearance has gripped the region with fear and confusion. Family members, teachers, and local leaders organized several search missions in nearby hospitals, rivers, and thickets—sadly, without success until today.
Sources close to the family said that his phone went off shortly after the reported accident, deepening concerns that foul play might have been involved.
“We have been praying and hoping to find him alive. It is heartbreaking to receive this news,” said one of his colleagues at Munyuki Secondary School.
Grim Discovery in River Chikali
Early this morning, local residents noticed something unusual floating along River Chikali, prompting them to alert authorities. Police officers and divers arrived at the scene and coordinated the retrieval of the body, which has since been moved to Kipkaren Funeral Home for identification and post-mortem examination.
The area Assistant County Commissioner confirmed the recovery, noting that identification will be conducted through official forensic procedures given the condition of the remains.
“The body retrieved from the river is believed to be that of Mr. Shange. We have informed his family, and the identification process will be done in the presence of law enforcement and relatives,” said the local administrator.
The news has left the Munyuki Secondary School fraternity devastated, as many of them had been participating in the search efforts since his disappearance.
Grief and Shock Among Teachers and Students
The education sector in Kakamega County is mourning the loss of a dedicated educator who was known for his humility, leadership, and commitment to academic excellence. Students at Munyuki Secondary described him as a father figure and mentor who always encouraged discipline and hard work.
“He was more than a teacher to us—he was a parent, a guide, and a role model,” said one emotional student.
On social media, condolences poured in under the hashtag #RIPShange, with many expressing disbelief over the tragic turn of events.
“Poleni sana wanamunyuki 😥. We have lost a great teacher and a true servant of education,” read one emotional post from a teacher in the region.
Police Launch Investigation
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of death but have indicated that investigations are ongoing. Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have joined the case to establish whether the principal’s death was accidental or involved foul play.
According to Kakamega County Police Commander, forensic experts are examining the vehicle wreckage and the scene of the initial accident for new leads.
“We are treating this as a case of interest. Once the post-mortem is completed, we will have more clarity on what exactly happened,” he said.
A Dedicated Leader Remembered
Before his tragic death, Mr. Simon Isiaho Shange was celebrated for his strong leadership and dedication to students’ welfare. Under his administration, Munyuki Secondary School had recorded notable academic improvements in recent years.
Colleagues described him as a man of integrity who worked tirelessly to uplift both his school and the local community.
“He was always the first to arrive at school and the last to leave. His commitment inspired both students and teachers,” said a fellow principal from Lugari.
His passing is seen as a major loss not only to the school but also to the broader education community in Western Kenya.
Calls for Safety and Mental Health Support in the Education Sector
The tragedy has reignited conversations about teacher welfare and safety, especially during the KCSE examination period when educators face immense pressure and long hours of work.
Education stakeholders are urging the Ministry of Education and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to provide additional psychosocial support and ensure that teachers’ travel arrangements during national exams are safe and well-coordinated.
“This is a painful reminder of the need to prioritize teacher safety and mental well-being. Our schools are losing great leaders in the line of duty,” said a KUPPET official from Kakamega branch.
Community in Mourning
Residents of Lugari Sub-County have expressed solidarity with the family of the late principal. Plans for burial arrangements will be announced once the post-mortem and official identification are complete.
The local clergy and county officials are expected to visit the school on Sunday to offer counseling and comfort to the staff and students as they come to terms with the devastating news.
Meanwhile, Munyuki Secondary School has suspended all non-examination activities to allow the community time to mourn their fallen leader.
Final Farewell
As investigations continue, one thing remains clear: Mr. Simon Isiaho Shange will be remembered as a man who gave his life in service of education. His untimely death has left a void that will be felt for years within the Munyuki community and beyond.
The words “Poleni sana wanamunyuki” echo across Lugari as students, teachers, and residents unite in grief — mourning not just a principal, but a beacon of hope who dedicated his life to shaping young minds.
