The chilling case has left both U.S. and Kenyan communities in shock.
Nyariki, a Delaware resident, was reported missing earlier last week after failing to show up for work for several days.
Her employer raised the alarm, prompting New Castle County police to issue a Gold Alert—a public notice used to locate missing individuals deemed to be at risk.
Authorities became increasingly concerned about Nyariki’s safety after a search of her apartment in Bear, Delaware, revealed “suspicious circumstances.”
According to police, this discovery escalated the investigation and led them to identify Matara as a person of interest.
On Saturday, December 21, 2024, officers in Maryland were contacted by Delaware police for assistance in locating Matara, believed to be connected to the case.
He was located in Aberdeen, Maryland, where police found his vehicle parked in the 1100 block of South Philadelphia Boulevard.
Upon inspecting the vehicle, officers made the grim discovery of dismembered human remains, later confirmed to be those of Nyariki.
Matara was arrested at the scene and is currently in custody in Maryland. He faces first-degree murder charges and is awaiting extradition to Delaware.
Investigators have suggested that more charges could follow as evidence continues to emerge.
While police have yet to reveal how Matara and Nyariki were connected, they noted the two were believed to be acquaintances.
This shocking case has sparked widespread attention, with friends and family of Nyariki mourning the tragic loss.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the relationship between the two or the events leading up to Nyariki’s death to come forward.
The investigation remains active, with police emphasizing their commitment to securing justice for Nyariki.