A Kenyan-American family based in Waterloo, Iowa is in deep mourning after losing all three of their children in a devastating road accident in Kenya.
A family holiday to Kenya has turned into unimaginable tragedy for Wangui Ndirangu and her husband, after their three children were involved in a fatal road accident along the Naivasha Highway on January 4, 2026.
The children who lost their lives are:
- Emmanuel DeLeon (13)
- Kairo Winkelpleck (6)
- Njeri DeLeon (16)
According to family and community reports, Emmanuel and Kairo died on the spot following the accident. Their elder sister Njeri DeLeon sustained critical injuries and was admitted to a hospital in Nairobi. She was placed in a coma. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries on January 16, 2026. This was nearly two weeks after the crash.
Family Survived, But Left Heartbroken
The children’s parents, Wangui Ndirangu, formerly of New Jersey and now residing in Iowa, survived the accident and were not seriously injured. However, they are now left grappling with the unbearable pain of losing all their children in one incident.
What was meant to be a joyful family visit to reconnect with relatives and heritage in Kenya has instead become a story of profound loss and heartbreak.
Community in Shock and Mourning
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across both the Kenyan diaspora in the United States and communities in Kenya. Messages of condolence and prayers have poured in from Kenyans in Iowa, New Jersey, Nairobi, and across the globe.
Funeral and memorial arrangements are being coordinated in Nairobi, with services taking place at the International Christian Centre (ICC) Nairobi. These will be followed by cremation at Kariokor Crematorium.
A Growing Concern: Road Safety in Kenya
This tragic incident once again highlights ongoing concerns over road safety in Kenya, particularly along major highways such as the Naivasha–Nakuru corridor, which has recorded numerous fatal accidents in recent years.
Many diaspora families visiting Kenya have increasingly expressed concerns about road conditions, reckless driving, and inadequate enforcement of traffic regulations.
A Family’s Pain, A Community’s Prayer
As the family navigates this unimaginable grief, the Kenyan diaspora and friends worldwide continue to rally around them with prayers, emotional support, and solidarity.
“What was meant to be a happy family vacation turned into deep pain and heartbreak. May God give strength to the parents and comfort to the family during this difficult time.”
The loss of Emmanuel, Kairo, and Njeri is not just a family tragedy — it is a reminder of life’s fragility and the urgent need for improved road safety to prevent more families from suffering similar pain.
