Authorities in Mombasa County are investigating a tragic incident in which a 45-year-old man, identified as Koriata Laytata, died after reportedly falling from the fourth floor of a residential building in the Nyali area on the night of Saturday, October 25, 2025.
According to a police report filed at the Nyali Police Station, the incident occurred at Gishanga Estate along Beach Road, a quiet residential neighborhood popular with middle-income families and short-term renters.
Laytata is said to have spent the evening at a local restaurant before heading back to his residence. Upon arrival, he realized he had forgotten his house key at the restaurant. Police say he immediately called the restaurant manager, who dispatched a motorcycle rider to deliver the forgotten key.
While waiting on his balcony, Laytata is believed to have accidentally slipped and plunged to the ground floor, sustaining fatal injuries. The incident occurred just minutes before the rider arrived with the key.
“When the rider arrived, he found the man lying in a pool of blood. It appears he fell from the fourth floor balcony,” a police officer familiar with the case said.
Police and emergency responders arrived shortly after being alerted by neighbors who heard a loud thud followed by commotion within the estate. Unfortunately, Laytata was pronounced dead at the scene.
The body was moved to the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examination as investigations continue. Detectives are treating the incident as a tragic accident, ruling out foul play at this stage.
Family members and friends have been left in deep shock, describing Laytata as a “calm, cheerful man” who was well known in the community.
“We are still in disbelief. He was in good spirits earlier that evening. It’s painful that such a small mistake ended his life,” said a close family friend who requested anonymity.
The Mombasa County Police Commander has urged residents living in multi-storey buildings to take extra caution while using balconies, especially at night or after consuming alcohol.
“We have witnessed several accidental falls in recent months. It’s important that tenants ensure their balconies are well lit and guarded, and that they avoid leaning over railings,” the police boss said.
This tragic case adds to a growing list of accidental deaths reported in coastal towns, with authorities emphasizing the need for public awareness and safety measures in high-rise residential buildings.
