Nairobi News

The tranquil community of Runda was rocked by the tragic suicide of a 60-year-old Belgian national, Mr Gilbert Vanhoutte.

The grim discovery was made on the morning of Wednesday, October 18, 2023, when Mr Vanhoutte was found lifeless in his residence.

Local law enforcement authorities, who swiftly responded to the incident, have officially ruled the cause of death as suicide.

According to the police statement, Mr Vanhoutte met his untimely demise after jumping from the rooftop of his house.

Mr Vanhoutte was known to lead a solitary life in the affluent neighborhood, and a security guard stationed on the premises recounted the tragic moment.

The guard reported hearing a loud thud, prompting him to investigate.

He discovered his employer lifeless at the scene.

The guard disclosed that Mr Vanhoutte had previously attempted suicide, mentioning an incident in which he had tried to harm himself with a sharp blade but had not succeeded.

Members of the Vanhoutte family had traveled abroad, leaving Mr Vanhoutte behind to oversee their business situated along Mombasa Road.

Both officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and local police arrived promptly at the scene, confirming the tragic loss.

The deceased’s body has been transferred to the City Morgue in Nairobi County.

The family has communicated their intent to conduct an autopsy, scheduled for Friday, October 20, 2023, upon their return to the country.

The tragic incident has shed light on the important issue of suicide.

According to Mind Organisation, suicidal tendencies can stem from struggling to cope with various life challenges, including mental health problems, bullying, prejudice, abuse, bereavement, relationship endings, physical pain or illness, major life changes, and financial difficulties.

This devastating event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support within our communities, as efforts continue to address the underlying causes of suicide.