A man accused of killing his girlfriend and fleeing the US to avoid prosecution last year is expected to appear in a Boston courtroom Tuesday after he was extradited from Kenya, officials announced.
Authorities started investigating on Nov. 1, 2023, after state police troopers found 31-year-old Margaret Mbitu dead in a car in a garage at Boston’s Logan Airport. Officials soon settled on Mbitu’s boyfriend, Kevin Kangethe, as a suspect in her death. Kangethe allegedly lived in Lowell when he killed Mbitu.
By the time authorities secured an arrest warrant, Kangethe had already boarded a flight to Kenya, according to Massachusetts State Police. The FBI’s Boston office stated that Kenyan law enforcement arrested Kangethe on Jan. 29. Despite escaping custody in early February, authorities managed to rearrest him one week later.
The Associated Press reported that Kangethe renounced his US citizenship after fleeing to Kenya, sparking a lengthy extradition process. The process concluded over the weekend when federal agents and a state police trooper escorted Kangethe back to Logan Airport. The FBI confirmed that the flight carrying Kangethe landed in Boston on Saturday night, with custody being transferred to the state police. Kangethe is now scheduled to be arraigned in Suffolk Superior Court on Tuesday.
The Suffolk District Attorney’s office released a statement on Monday, announcing that the arraignment will take place around 9:30 a.m. District Attorney Kevin Hayden expressed gratitude towards investigators and mentioned that he is relieved Mbitu’s family will have the opportunity to see Kangethe face justice.
Family members revealed that Mbitu went by the nickname “Maggie.” She worked as a nurse in Halifax and was reported missing after failing to show up for work one day. Mbitu’s cousin, Virginia Ndunga, described her as the most lovely, soft-spoken, beautiful, and friendly person they knew. Ndunga expressed devastation over the loss of her cousin, emphasizing their love for her.
Background of the Case
The case of Margaret Mbitu’s tragic death sent shockwaves through the community as details emerged about the circumstances surrounding her murder. Mbitu, a dedicated nurse in Halifax, was known for her compassionate nature and vibrant personality. Her sudden disappearance and subsequent discovery in a car at Logan Airport left her loved ones and colleagues reeling from the loss.
Authorities quickly focused their investigation on Kevin Kangethe, Mbitu’s boyfriend at the time of her death. Kangethe, who resided in Lowell, became the prime suspect in the case after evidence pointed to him as the perpetrator. Despite efforts to secure an arrest warrant, Kangethe managed to flee the country and seek refuge in Kenya, evading prosecution in the United States.
The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, including the Massachusetts State Police and the FBI, led to Kangethe’s eventual extradition from Kenya. His return to Boston marked a significant development in the pursuit of justice for Mbitu and closure for her grieving family and friends. The upcoming arraignment in Suffolk Superior Court will provide an opportunity for Kangethe to face the charges against him and for the legal process to unfold.
Impact on the Community
The tragic loss of Margaret Mbitu has reverberated throughout the Halifax community, where she was a beloved member known for her dedication to her profession and her warm personality. Colleagues and friends have mourned her untimely death, recalling fond memories of her kindness and compassion towards others. The news of Kangethe’s extradition and impending arraignment has brought a sense of relief to those who knew and loved Mbitu, as it signifies a step towards accountability for her tragic fate.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of seeking justice for victims of such heinous crimes. Mbitu’s story has shed light on the need for greater awareness and support for individuals facing abusive situations, emphasizing the significance of early intervention and prevention efforts. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community stands united in seeking justice for Mbitu and advocating for the rights of all individuals affected by violence.
Looking Ahead
As Kevin Kangethe prepares to face the legal consequences of his alleged actions, the focus remains on honoring the memory of Margaret Mbitu and ensuring that justice is served in her case. The upcoming arraignment will mark a pivotal moment in the pursuit of truth and accountability, as Kangethe’s fate is decided within the confines of the judicial system. The proceedings will provide an opportunity for Mbitu’s family, friends, and colleagues to seek closure and find solace in the pursuit of justice for their beloved Maggie.
Moving forward, the community will continue to rally around the memory of Margaret Mbitu, cherishing the impact she had on those around her and advocating for a future free from violence and harm. The legacy of Mbitu’s compassionate spirit will endure, inspiring others to stand up against injustice and support those in need. As the legal process unfolds, the hope for a fair and just resolution remains steadfast, as the memory of Margaret Mbitu lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
