Police in Siaya County are investigating a tragic case of suspected arson after a 96-year-old woman died inside a burning house, leading to the arrest of her 33-year-old grandson.

The late-night horror unfolded in Ayoo B Village, Nyang’oma Sub-location within Siaya Sub-county.

The victim, identified as Josphine Atieno Odongo, was trapped inside her home as the inferno spread rapidly. Due to the intense heat and speed of the fire, she was burnt beyond recognition.

According to preliminary investigations by detectives, the 33-year-old suspect who lived in the same homestead as the deceased and his biological mother, allegedly set the house on fire before fleeing the scene.

Neighbours who rushed to the homestead were unable to rescue the elderly woman. Police noted that a prolonged dry spell in the area caused the structure to ignite almost instantly, creating an inescapable wall of flame before help could arrive.

Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) personnel visited, processed, and documented the scene shortly after the incident.

A police manhunt led to the swift arrest of the grandson, who is currently being held at Siaya Police Station as homicide detectives work to establish the motive behind the fatal act.

The body of the deceased has been moved to the Siaya County Referral Hospital mortuary pending a post-mortem examination as investigations continue.