An 18-year-old man has been found dead in what local authorities in Nyagisozi Sector, Nyanza District, believe may have been a suicide linked to emotional distress following a relationship problem.
Nyandwi Eric was found hanging from a guava tree in Nyaruvumu Village, Rurangazi Cell, on the morning of June 15, 2026.
Authorities said there were no visible injuries on his body. His remains were taken to Nyanza Hospital for examination as investigations continue.
Relationship problems suspected to have contributed
Nyagisozi Sector Executive Secretary Habinshuti Slydio told IGIHE that local authorities and security officials immediately went to the scene after receiving information about the death.
He said: “It is believed that he was driven by grief over a 21-year-old girl he was dating and the deceased found out that the girl was dating another guy and he couldn’t accept it, so it is believed that this is what led him to take his own life. The relevant authorities are still investigating.”
The official stressed that the suspected relationship-related motive has not been conclusively established, as authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.
Investigation underway
Nyandwi’s body was transferred to Nyanza Hospital for examination, which authorities expect will contribute to establishing the circumstances of his death.
Officials said no visible injuries were found on the body when it was discovered.
Investigators are continuing to establish what happened and whether there were other circumstances connected to the young man’s death.
Authorities urge young people to seek help
Habinshuti urged residents, particularly young people, not to resort to suicide when facing heartbreak or other serious personal difficulties.
He stressed that rejection or the end of a relationship should not be treated as a reason to end one’s life, noting that relationships can change while life continues.
The sector administration also extended its condolences to Nyandwi’s family as they mourn the loss.
Cause of death remains under investigation
Although relationship-related emotional distress is among the circumstances being considered, authorities have not formally established it as the cause of Nyandwi’s death. The circumstances should therefore be regarded as suspected until the ongoing investigation and medical examination provide definitive findings.
