Authorities in Rwanda’s Northern Province have launched an investigation into the death of Dusabimana Marie, who was found dead in Gakenke District, while her 24-year-old husband, Rukundo Innocent, was found alive but suffering from injuries to his neck.
Rukundo was rushed to Ruli Hospital for medical treatment. The circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and her husband’s injuries have prompted authorities to investigate what happened inside the couple’s home.
The incident occurred during the night leading into Wednesday in Ruli Sector, Gakenke District.
Neighbours report a confrontation before the incident
Neighbours said the couple had reportedly been involved in a fight shortly before Dusabimana was found dead.
However, they said they were unaware of what triggered the confrontation, adding that the couple’s household was not widely known for serious domestic disputes.
Authorities have not yet established what caused the confrontation or exactly how Dusabimana died.
Property questions emerge, but no link has been established
Information obtained after the incident indicates that Dusabimana had visited her parents in recent days to discuss or inspect property that her parents were expected to give her.
However, there is currently no evidence confirming that the reported disagreement between the couple was connected to property.
Investigators are expected to establish whether the property issue had any connection to the incident or whether another dispute may have triggered the confrontation.
Police: Investigation is underway
CIP Ignace Ngirabakunzi, the Rwanda National Police spokesperson for the Northern Province, confirmed that an investigation had been opened.
“The woman was found dead, while the husband was still breathing but had also sustained injuries to his neck and was rushed to hospital. Because of the uncertainty surrounding the incident, the competent authorities immediately launched an investigation to establish what may have caused the death,” he said.
The investigation is continuing as Rukundo receives treatment at Ruli Hospital.
Body taken for examination
Dusabimana’s body was taken to Ruli Hospital for examination before burial.
The examination, together with other evidence collected during the investigation, is expected to help authorities determine the cause of death and reconstruct the events that led to the incident.
There has been no official confirmation so far that anyone has been arrested or formally identified as a suspect in connection with the death.
Police urge residents to resolve disputes peacefully
CIP Ngirabakunzi also urged residents to avoid disputes that can escalate into violence and potentially result in loss of life.
He encouraged people experiencing domestic or other conflicts to seek help from local authorities before disagreements escalate into violence.
The investigation in Ruli remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding Dusabimana’s death and the injuries sustained by her husband.
