Church Elder Stabs Fellow Elder to Death Over Alleged Affair with His Wife During Service
Shocking act of violence unfolds during church service as accusations of infidelity lead to fatal confrontation
Story Highlights
Francis Opiyo fatally stabbed during a sermon by a fellow elder accusing him of having an affair with his wife
Suspect flees after the stabbing, later surrenders to local authorities
Police urge peaceful resolution of conflicts
Worshippers at Ebenezer SDA Church in Homa Bay in Kenya were left in shock on Saturday when a church elder was fatally stabbed by a fellow elder during a sermon, in what appears to be a deadly love triangle.
Francis Opiyo, 35, had just wrapped up a mini-sermon and was handing over the service to his colleague when the unthinkable happened.
As Francis passed the floor, his fellow elder, who had concealed a knife in his Bible, suddenly attacked, stabbing Francis in the chest. He collapsed instantly.
According to Francis’ brother, Joseph Opiyo, the victim was unaware of the hidden weapon or the deadly intentions of his colleague.
The attacker, fueled by accusations of an affair between his wife and Francis, fled the scene shortly after the attack, only to later surrender to the Assistant Chief.
The tragic incident has stirred outrage in the community, with an angry mob burning down the assailant’s home in protest. Local police have since detained the suspect at Magunga Police Station as investigations continue.
Suba South Sub-county Police Commander, Caxton Ndunda, condemned the violence, urging the public to seek peaceful conflict resolution through proper channels such as clan elders or church leadership, rather than resorting to murder.
Francis’ body has been taken to St. Camillus Hospital Mortuary in Sori Town, Migori County.
