Alvin Gitahi convicted of murdering ex-partner Vivienne Baraka in Ealing

A man has been convicted of murdering his ex-partner after she sent a desperate text to her mother minutes before her death. Alvin Gitahi, 44, strangled Vivienne Baraka, 35, at her flat in Ealing on 26 March 2024. Baraka had told her mother she was 'in danger' and asked her to call emergency services.

The jury at Southwark Crown Court found Gitahi guilty of murder following a trial. Prosecutor Charlotte Newell KC told the court Baraka had repeatedly endured violent abuse, including strangulation, and had told family Gitahi threatened to 'finish' her. She feared reporting him to police would provoke further violence.

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Years of abuse before fatal attack

Baraka had confided in her mother that Gitahi would 'kill her' if she tried to leave. In January 2022, she reported an incident to police in which Gitahi punched her, bit her finger, and strangled her. During that attack, she hid in the bathroom, but Gitahi removed the door handle to trap her inside.

The court heard Baraka had let Gitahi into her flat on the day of her death, shortly after their relationship ended. By the time police arrived, she was already dead. Gitahi denied involvement, but the jury rejected his account.

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We are grateful that justice has prevailed. Vivienne was taken from us far too soon. She was a very much loved member of our family, and she is missed every day.

Vivienne Baraka’s family

Family calls for accountability

Baraka’s family said they were relieved justice had been served. They described her as community-oriented and a devoted mother. 'Vivienne’s spirit lives on in her daughter,' they said. They thanked those who had supported them during the trial.

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Denby, who led the investigation, called the case devastating. 'A young woman has been subject to ongoing violence in her own home, culminating in her tragic death,' he said. 'While no outcome can undo this loss, we hope today’s conviction brings her family some measure of closure.'

What happens next

Gitahi remains in custody and is due to be sentenced in October 2024. The court has not yet set a date for the hearing. Baraka’s family said they would continue to honour her memory and support her daughter.