The Kenyan online community is reeling from the shocking and sudden death of Liz Kamene, a beloved TikToker known as “KambaIcon,” who lost her life in a tragic hit-and-run accident.
The 22-year-old content creator was reportedly struck by a vehicle while pursuing thieves who had snatched her phone near the Kariobangi Roundabout in Nairobi. Her untimely demise has sparked widespread mourning, raised questions about public safety, and ignited calls for justice.
The Incident
According to initial reports, the incident occurred in the early hours of March 11, 2025, when Kamene was using her phone near the Kariobangi Roundabout. Eyewitnesses claim that a thief grabbed her device—a prized iPhone she had saved for months to purchase—and fled.
In a desperate attempt to recover it, Kamene gave chase, only to be hit by a speeding car that fled the scene. The impact was devastating, leaving her with severe injuries, including the loss of limbs, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her husband, Wycliffe Holden, shared the heartbreaking details with local media, revealing that he was out of town in Migori County when the tragedy struck.
The couple had spoken on the phone until midnight the night before, and Holden awoke to the devastating news the following morning. “She worked so hard to get that phone, and it must have hurt her to see it taken,” he said, his voice breaking with emotion.
A Rising Star Cut Short
Liz Kamene had built a significant following on TikTok, where she captivated audiences with her dance videos and vibrant personality. With over 48,000 followers and 318,000 likes, her most popular video had amassed more than 580,000 views. Known for showcasing her curvaceous figure and infectious energy, she had become a recognizable figure in Kenya’s burgeoning digital content creation scene. Friends and fans described her as hardworking, kind, and a source of inspiration, leaving a void that many feel deeply.
Kamene’s death has drawn comparisons to other young Kenyan influencers, notably TikToker Brian Chira, who also perished in a hit-and-run accident in March 2024. The eerie similarities—both occurring in the same month and involving reckless drivers who fled—have left the online community shaken and prompted discussions about the risks faced by content creators.
Questions and Outrage
The circumstances surrounding Kamene’s death have raised eyebrows and fueled speculation. The severity of her injuries, including the loss of limbs and the fact that she was found partially undressed, has led some to question whether this was a simple accident or a more sinister event. Social media users have pointed out the unusual nature of the crash, with some demanding a thorough investigation into whether foul play was involved. “How does an accident remove her trousers? This needs answers,” one TikToker posted online.
Adding to the outrage, first responders and onlookers failed to cover her body, allowing graphic images and videos to circulate widely. This lack of dignity has sparked anger among Kenyans, who have criticized the insensitivity and called for better handling of such incidents.
A Community in Mourning
As news of her death spread, tributes poured in from fans, friends, and fellow creators. A candle-lit vigil is scheduled to be held in Huruma, Kamene’s home area, to honor her life and legacy. Holden, who had been with Kamene for two years, penned a tearful message: “One day tutapatana [we will meet again],” reflecting the profound loss felt by her loved ones. She leaves behind her mother, two brothers, and one sister, as well as a grieving community that is rallying to support her family.
Calls for Justice and Safety
The incident has reignited concerns about road safety and the rising tide of crime in urban areas like Nairobi. Kamene’s death highlights the dangers faced by individuals who attempt to confront thieves, often with tragic consequences. Women’s rights activists have joined the chorus, urging authorities to investigate thoroughly and address the broader issue of violence against young women.
Police have yet to release an official statement, but the public is pressing for swift action, including a review of CCTV footage from the area. Until then, the mystery surrounding Kamene’s final moments lingers, leaving many to wonder if justice will be served.
Liz Kamene’s vibrant spirit and dedication to her craft touched countless lives. As the online community mourns, her story serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the need for greater safety measures.
Her last TikTok post, shared just days before her death, featured a photo with a friend and the caption, “Inatakanga some few regrets alafu unaanza kutumia akili [You’ll have a few regrets, then you’ll start using your brain],” a poignant reflection that now resonates with a bittersweet irony.
As the investigation unfolds, Kamene’s fans and family hope her death will not be in vain, sparking change to protect others from similar fates. For now, the hashtag #JusticeForLizKamene is trending, a testament to the enduring impact of a young woman whose light was extinguished too soon.
