Neighbours and family members believe the fire may have been caused by an electrical accident, possibly while the teenager was tampering with power lines.
Residents said Macharia had been struggling with mental health challenges and was under medication.
On the night of the fire, it is reported that he was handling electrical lines before the blaze erupted. The exact cause is still being investigated by authorities.
Macharia’s uncle explained that the teenager had recently been discharged from a hospital in Kerugoya and was brought to his aunt’s home so that she could monitor him and ensure he took his prescribed medication.
“After he was discharged, my brother brought him here to stay with my sister so she could monitor how he takes his medication. Our biggest hope was that the drugs would help, but he kept running away,” he said.
The uncle added that managing the teenager had been difficult. Despite their efforts, he would often leave the house and resist taking his medication. “I struggled to manage him and eventually called his father to come and help,” the uncle stated.
Family members expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing Cliff as a bright and gentle boy who had faced challenges that required understanding and patience.
Neighbours said the fire spread quickly, leaving little time for anyone to intervene. They rushed to alert the family and the local authorities, but unfortunately, the teenager could not be saved.
The tragedy has left the community in shock, highlighting the challenges families face when caring for young people with mental health issues.