Security officers in Kenya have launched investigations into the death of a pastor who died after a tent toppled on him during a night vigil attended by mourners at Ongoche village in Nyatike.

Joakim Oyoo, the village elder said the deceased identified as Peter Ochieng was among several other people who were taking cover in the tent following a heavy downpour.

They had pitched the tent at the home to condole with the family who had lost their kin earlier in the week.

As the evening progressed, the tent was cast off its moorings by strong winds and ended up burying the pastor in a mess of canvas and metal.

He succumbed to his injuries before he got to the Migori Level Four Hospital where he was being rushed. His body was moved to the Migori Level Four Hospital Mortuary.

A few metres from the scene of the incident, a cow was also killed by lighting shortly after.

Nyatike sub-county Police Commander Stella Too said the incidents were not reported but said officers were conducting investigations.

She threatened legal action on those found holding outlawed night vigils, saying it’s unfortunate that people are still sneaking to night events which have been banned by the Government.