Mystery Surrounds Death of 21-Year-Old Woman After 22nd-Floor Fall

A 21-year-old woman died after falling from the 22nd floor of Altura Apartments in Nairobi's Upper Hill on Saturday night. 

Detectives have launched an investigation as her family disputes suggestions that she died by suicide. Margaret Wambui, who lived with her family in Kasarani, left home early on Saturday evening, telling her relatives she was heading to her hotel internship. However, she never arrived at work, prompting concern when repeated calls to her phone went unanswered.

The family said a friend eventually contacted them after someone else answered Wambui's phone and instructed them to report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) offices in Kilimani. Police later confirmed that Wambui entered the apartment building at about 10pm, briefly stopped at the reception and then went to the rooftop. 

Witnesses told investigators she was taking photographs shortly before the fall.

Her handbag, which contained her mobile phone, work uniform and other personal belongings, was recovered from the rooftop. Her body was found in a neighbouring compound.

Wambui's mother, Wangari Gathogo, described the events leading up to the discovery of her daughter's death. She said Wambui's friend became concerned after failing to reach her and grew more worried when a stranger answered the phone. The family has rejected the possibility of suicide, saying Wambui had maintained her normal routine and had shown no signs of emotional distress. 

They are seeking answers about whether she fell accidentally, was pushed or if any other circumstances contributed to her death. The incident comes less than a week after another fatal fall involving a Grade 9 student at CITAM Schools Ngong. That case also remains under police investigation.

Detectives from Kilimani Police Station are reviewing CCTV footage and other evidence to establish Wambui's movements before her death. Her body was taken to the Nairobi Funeral Home, where a post-mortem examination is expected to determine the cause of death. Police have appealed to anyone with information about the incident to assist with the investigation.