Couple Denies Charges in Siaya Fire That Killed Nine Family Members

• May 27, 2025

A couple has been charged with nine counts of murder following a house fire in Siaya County that killed nine people. The victims, all from one family, died when their home in Upanda village was set ablaze in what police believe was a planned arson attack.

Christopher Owino and his wife, Roseline Atieno, were arraigned at the Siaya High Court on Monday. Appearing before Justice David Kemei, the two faced charges connected to the April 23 incident that claimed the lives of Ouma Opondo Adalla, his wife Jecinter Anyango, and their seven children. The children ranged in age from just six months to 17 years.

The fire completely destroyed the family’s home, leaving no survivors. The tragedy shocked the community, and hundreds turned up for the burial on May 9, where emotional scenes played out as mourners called for swift justice. Investigators initially described the attack as an act by unidentified persons, but the arrests of Owino and Atieno followed weeks later.

Both accused persons have pleaded not guilty. Through their lawyer, they asked the court to release them on a cash bail of Ksh.500,000 each. They told the judge they were ready to follow any bail terms the court might set.

However, the prosecution opposed their release on bail. They argued that they needed time to complete certain legal procedures, including filing an official affidavit in response to the bail request.

Justice Kemei said the court would rule on the bail application on June 9, 2025.

The case has drawn widespread attention across the country. Residents, leaders, and the victims’ relatives have urged the judiciary to speed up the case and ensure justice is served. The loss of an entire family has left the community grieving and demanding accountability.

As the case continues, all eyes remain on the Siaya High Court for the next steps in what has become one of the most heartbreaking tragedies in recent memory.