Fugitive Murder Suspect Extradited to the U.S. After Escaping Police Custody in Kenya
A man who fled a police station in Kenya after being apprehended for allegedly murdering his girlfriend has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. Kevin Adam Kinyanjui Kangethe, 40, is accused of killing Margaret Mbitu and leaving her remains in a vehicle at Boston Logan International Airport last year. Following his arrest, he was ordered to be held without bail.
Details of the Alleged Crime
Margaret Mbitu’s body was discovered on October 31, 2023, inside an SUV parked at Logan Airport. The Suffolk Superior Court proceedings revealed that Mbitu’s family and friends expressed their relief and hope for justice after hearing the judge’s ruling.
Mary Kinyariro, a cousin of Mbitu, stated on behalf of the family: “This has been a long journey for us. Today gives us hope and signifies progress toward achieving justice.” She emphasized their commitment to ensuring that Kangethe faces severe consequences for his actions.
Escape from Custody
Kangethe had initially been arrested in connection with Mbitu’s death but managed to escape from police custody on February 8, 2024. According to Nairobi’s police chief, he slipped out of his cell and boarded one of Kenya’s common private minivans used for public transport.
Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden remarked that this incident marks “just the beginning of a lengthy pursuit for justice” regarding Mbitu’s tragic case. He described her as “a cherished caregiver,” highlighting her role as a nurse who touched many lives with her compassion.
New Evidence Emerges
Prosecutors have since provided additional details about how Kangethe allegedly attacked Mbitu with a knife inside the vehicle before abandoning it at Logan Airport. Reports indicate she suffered ten stab wounds primarily located on her face and neck during this brutal assault.
Mbitu was found slumped face down in the car with its seat reclined back; authorities noted that heavily tinted windows obscured visibility into the vehicle from outside.
Timeline Leading Up to Arrests
After committing what prosecutors describe as an egregious act against Mbitu, Kangethe reportedly abandoned her body before attempting to flee back home. A collaborative effort between American law enforcement agencies and Kenyan authorities led them to locate him at a nightclub in Nairobi on January 29.
Despite being captured initially, he escaped shortly thereafter but was recaptured soon after fleeing custody again—this time leading up to his extradition back into U.S. jurisdiction where he now awaits further legal proceedings scheduled for November 5th concerning pretrial matters.
The case continues drawing attention due not only to its tragic nature but also because it highlights issues surrounding international crime fugitives evading justice across borders—a growing concern among law enforcement agencies worldwide.
