Kikuyu Gospel Star Pati Junior Dies in Crash Days After Album Launch
The Kenyan gospel fraternity is in mourning following the tragic death of renowned Kikuyu gospel artiste Patrick Karanja, popularly known as Pati Junior.
The Tebere Ward native passed away on Friday, November 15, in a horrific road accident, just five days after celebrating the launch of his latest album at a highly anticipated mega event.
The accident, which occurred on a busy Kirinyaga highway, involved a collision with a truck transporting building materials. The tragic news has left family, friends, and fans in shock, especially given the celebratory mood surrounding his recent career milestone.
Mwea MP Mary Maingi expressed her sorrow, saying, “The untimely passing of Patrick Karanja, AKA Pati, deeply saddens me. A talented gospel artist from Tebere Ward, whose life was tragically cut short in a road accident yesterday, leaving a void in the hearts of all his fans and loved ones.”
Fans and fellow gospel musicians took to social media to mourn the artist, sharing heartfelt tributes to commemorate his legacy.
Purity Muthoni, a close friend, wrote, “How will I delete your number from my contacts list? Surely, Pati Junior? We talked one week ago, now you are gone. It is so tough. Rest in peace, my dear friend.”
Another mourner, Jian Ndung’u, lamented, “Death has robbed us of a friend and a gospel colleague.”
The tragedy is particularly devastating as Pati Junior had just begun reaping the fruits of his labor, following the album’s release that marked a significant milestone in his gospel music journey.
A close friend, Tonny, painfully noted, “Pati Junior, we attended your event on Sunday, and you haven’t even enjoyed the success. Dying five days after it? God knows the reason.”
As tributes continue to pour in, Kenyans have been reminded of the fragility of life. Pati Junior’s legacy as a passionate and talented gospel artiste will undoubtedly remain in the hearts of many.
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Kikuyu Gospel Star Pati Junior Dies in Crash Days After Album Launch
