NIMBA COUNTY — A tragic incident shook Baintonwin Town, Yarmein Administrative District, on the night of February 23, 2026, as a 44-year-old man, Othello Nyan Gbala, reportedly took his own life.
According to reports, the incident occurred around midnight. Speaking on the Radio Kergheamahn Breakfast Show, journalist Daniel Garteh Sr. shared an account from the deceased’s wife, Sayenahn Gbala. She explained that the family had returned from their farm earlier in the evening and spent time together on the porch, enjoying light conversation before retiring to bed with their three children.
Mrs. Gbala said she was awakened by a gunshot around 12:00 a.m. Upon checking, she reportedly discovered her husband had placed a single-barrel shotgun in his mouth and pulled the trigger. She immediately sought help from community members, alerting the town chief and local leaders. Residents arrived at the scene but did not disturb the body. Authorities from the Liberia National Police (LNP) Camp Four were subsequently contacted and arrived to initiate an investigation.
Initial inquiries by police included questioning the wife about any domestic disputes or unresolved conflicts. She reportedly stated that there were no known issues and described her husband as cheerful and in good spirits before going to bed. Neighbors also expressed shock, noting that Othello was a hardworking, peaceable man actively involved in farming and community activities, with no recent quarrels or visible tensions.
While some local speculation about the cause of the tragedy has circulated, no official determination has been made. Authorities have yet to release a formal statement on the circumstances of his death.
The incident has left residents in disbelief, struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of a respected community member. Investigations are ongoing.
