Ignored Warnings That Led To British Golfer John Middleton's Murder In Mombasa
His body was discovered in a bathtub, showing signs of a violent attack.
British golfer John Middleton was found brutally murdered at his Utange residence in Mombasa on Monday, October 7.
His body was discovered in a bathtub, showing signs of a violent attack. A machete, believed to be the weapon used in the crime, was found nearby, with the discovery of the body made by a cleaner who had come for her routine work.
The cleaner then contacted the deceased’s girlfriend who resides in Mtwapa who rushed to the scene and later reported the matter to the police promptly.
Kisauni Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Jamleck Mbuba confirmed to the press, though described the circumstances of the murder as mysterious as there were no signs of a struggle. Additionally, nothing appeared to be stolen, ruling out robbery as a motive.
A photo of slain British golfer John Middleton. /NTV
At the time of the incident, John Middleton was reportedly living alone. “The body had serious cut wounds on the hands. There were little signs of struggle at the murder scene,” DCC Mbuba explained.
So far, no one has been arrested but the police are working to trace the perpetrators behind the gruesome murder of the 75-year-old man. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects may have scaled the perimeter walls of his house before committing the heinous act.
In the days before his death, neighbours had grown concerned over suspicious people seemingly following Middleton and had advised him to improve his home security, only for Middleton to turn down their pleas and instead trust that his car alarm would be enough protection.
On the night of the murder, residents noticed something unusual; Middleton’s dogs, which typically acted as a strong deterrent against intruders, did not bark, raising suspicions that the dogs may have been poisoned.
Local authorities are now urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Known as "Fishbone" among his friends, Middleton was seen as a quiet and reclusive man who had lived alone for over 15 years. Despite this, he was an active member of the Nyali Golf & Country Club, where fellow golfers remembered him warmly.
Through his X account Elkana Jacob, a media consultant, a criminologist and a security expert, mourned, “RIP Mr John Middleton, golfers will really miss you.”
Middleton led a solitary life and did not have close family ties, although he occasionally received visits from different women.
He was known for keeping to himself, rarely engaging with neighbours, but his presence was appreciated at the golf club, where he remained a respected member.
His independent lifestyle saw him spending most of his time at home or with his dogs. Even though he preferred his own company, his death has left a significant impact on the local golf community and those who knew him.