Man jailed for life following murder in Ealing

A man has been jailed for life for fatally suffocating his partner after a Met investigation revealed a pattern of abusive behaviour leading up to her death.

Alvin Gitahi, 43 (06.06.1982) of Uxbridge Road, Ealing, killed Vivienne Baraka in Ealing on Tuesday, 26 March 2024.

Detectives built the case through analysis of electronic devices, phone records and witness statements, uncovering a pattern of abuse. Their enquiries established that

35-year-old Vivienne Baraka called her mother and pleaded with her to contact police because she feared for her safety. Investigators also found evidence that Gitahi assaulted her regularly.

The case demonstrates the Met’s commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, using every available investigative opportunity to pursue dangerous offenders and bring those responsible for abuse to justice.

On Friday, 23 October a judge at Southwark Crown Court jailed Gitahi for life, to serve a minimum of 21 years and three months. He was found guilty of murder at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, 6 August.

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Denby, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with Vivienne's loved ones, who have lost a mother, daughter and a friend.

“This is a devastating case where a young woman was subjected to ongoing violence in her own home, culminating in her tragic death. While no outcome can undo this loss, we hope today's sentencing brings her family and friends some measure of closure and reassurance that Gitahi has been held accountable for his actions.

“Our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls remains firm. We will continue to pursue offenders and work closely with partner agencies to prevent harm and support victims. We encourage anyone affected to seek help from the police or support services."

In a statement, Vivienne’s family said: “We are grateful that justice has prevailed. Vivienne was very community-orientated and helped a lot of people during her life.

“She was taken from us far too soon. She was a very much-loved member of our family, and she is missed every day.

“Vivienne’s spirit lives on in her daughter. We would like to thank everyone who has supported us through this difficult time.”

The investigation

At around 15:15hrs on Tuesday, 26 March 2024, police were called after concerns were raised for the welfare of a woman at an address in Riverside Close, Ealing.

Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and found 35-year-old Vivienne Baraka suffering with injuries. Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, she was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

A post-mortem examination showed Vivienne had died from compression to the neck.

Gitahi was arrested at the scene, and a murder investigation was launched, with officers gathering crucial evidence.

Electronic devices were seized from the address, revealing messages between Vivienne and Gitahi which indicated that Vivienne was subject to repeated abusive behaviour.

The investigative team also gathered key witness statements, including from neighbours, who told officers they could hear Vivienne screaming prior to police arrival.

Following these enquiries, Gitahi was charged with murder on Wednesday, 8 October 2025.

The Met has significantly strengthened its training and response to violence against women and girls (VAWG). More than 23,000 officers and staff have now received bespoke VAWG training, complemented by strengthened specialist victim support services, ensuring a consistent and trauma-informed response.

If you are looking for help or support, please visit the Women’s Aid support page or call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.