The horrific incident.
In Bomet County, Kenya, a grim tragedy shook the community when Bernard Kirui Kipkemoi was sentenced to 150 years in prison for the brutal murder of his three young sons—Amos Kipngetich (12), Vincent Kiprotich (8), and Emanuel Kiprono (5). The horrific crime, which occurred in 2019, not only devastated a grieving family but also ignited a nationwide conversation about domestic violence, mental health, and child protection.
The incident unfolded in March 2019 after a violent family dispute. On the night of March 18, Bernard and his wife Sharon Cherono fought, leading to Sharon leaving their home in Magutek Village with their youngest child. The three boys were left in Bernard’s care. Later that evening, Bernard returned drunk and demanded to take the children back so they could attend school. Since it was late, the children were left with a promise that they would be returned the next day. Tragically, that promise became their last moment of safety.
The following morning, the children’s grandmother discovered their lifeless bodies, strangled and covered with blankets, an agonizing scene that shocked neighbors and authorities alike. Postmortem examinations confirmed that the cause of death was asphyxia due to strangulation. Police launched a manhunt, and Bernard Kirui was arrested in April 2019 and charged with three counts of murder.
The court case and the verdict.
During the trial, Bernard denied the charges, claiming he had left the children at home and traveled out of town to look for petrol. Despite his sworn defence, he was unable to provide witnesses or evidence to support his alibi. He admitted he was the last person seen with the children but denied harming them, showing no remorse. The judge, Justice Lagat Korir, dismissed his defence, stating, “The circumstantial evidence against the accused is overwhelming and cogent. It points unerringly to the guilt of the accused and no one else.” The judge also warned against the rising tide of extreme violence in homes and urged community leaders and institutions to unite in combatting such acts.
On February 17, 2025, Bomet High Court Judge Julius Kipkosgei Ng’arng’ar sentenced Bernard Kirui to 150 years in prison—three consecutive 50-year terms for each murder charge. “This court cannot overlook such a grievous act. The punishment must reflect the severity of the crime committed,” the judge said, calling the crime “inhuman and shocking” and emphasizing that the sentence served as a deterrent to others.
Family’s grief and voices of the community.
The mother, Sharon Cherono, whose life was shattered by the loss, spoke emotionally during the sentencing. “I have lost everything that mattered to me—my children, my family. I hoped for justice, and I am grateful that he was held accountable,” she said. Sharon recounted how the marriage was marred by alcohol abuse and domestic disputes. “He was kind sometimes, but other times, especially when drunk, he became unrecognizable. I warned him about the violence but never imagined it would come to this,” she lamented.
The children’s grandfather, Joseph Kipngetich, expressed profound grief. “My grandchildren were bright and lively. Their lives were stolen in a moment of madness. We are devastated beyond words,” he said.
The community of Bomet was devastated by the tragedy, with leaders and religious figures condemning the violence and calling for stronger protective measures. A local spiritual leader said, “This tragedy is a wake-up call. We must protect our children and support families in crisis.”
Root causes: alcohol abuse and domestic violence
Experts stress that this tragedy highlights urgent societal problems, including unaddressed domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental health issues. Dr. Margaret Nyambura, a family therapist, stated, “Many families suffer silently. Alcohol often triggers violence, and mental health needs are overlooked. Accessible support systems and counseling are critical to preventing such disasters.”
Child rights activist Lydia Mutua added, “The government must prioritize mental health services and enforce child protection laws. We cannot wait for another tragedy to act.”
A call for justice and prevention.
Local authorities in Bomet have intensified efforts to identify and support families in distress, hoping to prevent future incidents. Sharon, while mourning, expressed hope that their children’s deaths would not be in vain. “Our children deserve safety and love. We must work together to ensure no other family endures this pain.”
The story of Amos, Vincent, and Emanuel serves as a heartrending reminder of the fragility of family bonds and the critical need for protective interventions. While Bernard Kirui begins his jail term, the community continues to grapple with grief and the call for change. Their memory fuels advocacy for stronger social support and child protection within Bomet and across Kenya.
Remembering the children and moving forward.
This tragedy ultimately challenges society to confront uncomfortable truths about violence within homes and compels us to foster environments where conflicts are resolved peacefully, families receive needed help, and children grow up safe and loved.
Sure Media Magazine 