A boy was burned to death yesterday morning in Mbeere North District. Five-year-old Eliud Muriuki died at around 7am in Nguthi village, of Kananki sub location in Kanyuambora area. The house is said to have caught fire while the boy's parents were off to a nearby church.

Mbeere North police boss Eric Mugambi said the parents went to the church for the morning dedications leaving the boy asleep. Mugambi said the boy was burned beyond recognition.

He said investigations were underway to establish the cause of the fire and whether there was foul play. The police boss cautioned parents to always alert their neighbours when away and leaving children behind.

He urged parents to ensure doors to the houses are not locked so good samaritans are able to save lives in a fire outbreak.The incident comes barely a month after two teenagers died under similar circumstances at Kathageri market.