A photograph taken at Joy Wangui’s prayer day shows Walter Kipkoech, 23, standing beside the 18‑year‑old Form Four student weeks before she was discovered dead in Molo, Nakuru County.

Police investigations have established that Kipkoech and Wangui were in a romantic relationship.

Wangui’s body was found inside a house in the Kiambaa area of Moto Location after her brother returned from a nearby shop and discovered her lifeless.

Detectives recovered an axe, a panga and two knives at the scene, all bearing suspected bloodstains, and collected additional items of evidence.

Kipkoech fled after the killing, was traced to a hideout in Lagwenda Village, Kuresoi North Sub‑County, and arrested while wearing clothing that appeared stained with blood.

He was taken to Molo Police Station for processing ahead of arraignment as investigators continue forensic analysis and witness interviews.

Detectives are also probing a possible love‑triangle motive, following a chilling note found on a wall at the crime scene.

Police said the arrest would help investigators establish a clearer account of the events leading to Wangui’s death, though the motive remains unconfirmed.

Police have expressed condolences to Wangui’s family and indicated that any charges against Kipkoech will be tested through the court process.