Esther Gitau, a 37-year-old Kenyan woman and active-duty soldier stationed at Fort Cavazos, was tragically killed on February 21, 2025, in Killeen, Texas. Authorities discovered her body in her home on Lakecrest Drive during a welfare check, where she had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead approximately two hours later. Gitau was a food safety inspector assigned to the 1st Medical Brigade and had previously served at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, and Fort Knox,
Kentucky. Her military service was recognized with several awards, including the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Her husband, 42-year-old Staff Sgt. John Gitau Mwangi, also a soldier stationed at Fort Cavazos, was arrested in connection with her death. Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Mwangi, who was later found and taken into custody at Fort Cavazos. He is currently being held at the Killeen City Jail and faces charges of first-degree murder. The charge is pending an indictment by a grand jury. Police have indicated that the incident was related to domestic violence, though they have not publicly disclosed a specific motive. Two children were present in the home at the time of the incident but were reportedly unaware of what had transpired.
The case remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding Gitau’s death. The Killeen Police Department has assured the public that there is no ongoing threat related to the incident. Meanwhile, the military community at Fort Cavazos has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Gitau, with her brigade commander describing her as an exceptional soldier who will be missed by all who knew her. The legal proceedings against Mwangi are ongoing, and he could face a life sentence or even the death penalty under Texas law.
