Family Launches Fundraiser to Repatriate Kenyan Killed in Iowa Crash

A Kenyan family in the United States is seeking financial support after 43-year-old Titus Wanjala died in a road accident in Iowa earlier this month. 

The fundraising campaign aims to cover funeral costs and the repatriation of his body to Kenya for burial. The appeal, hosted on GoFundMe, says the family is facing significant expenses linked to funeral arrangements, transport and other unexpected costs. 

Organisers have asked well-wishers to contribute or share the fundraiser, saying that every donation and every share will help support the family during this difficult time. Family and friends have described Wanjala as a kind and generous man who had a positive impact on those around him. 

In the fundraiser, the organiser said his warmth, willingness to help and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on many people. The accident happened on 7 July in Waukee, Iowa, after the vehicle carrying Wanjala entered a pond and became submerged. 

He and 23-year-old River Cropper, who was also from Waukee, were rescued by emergency responders but were later pronounced dead in the hospital. Witnesses told police they saw the vehicle enter the pond but did not see anyone leave it. Waukee Police Chief Chad McCluskey expressed his condolences to both families and said investigations into the cause of the crash are continuing.

Members of the Kenyan community in the United States held a candlelight vigil on 12 July to honour Wanjala's life and support his family. The gathering brought together friends and community members to pay tribute and stand with those affected by the loss.