Alvin Gitahi, 43, will be sentenced at Southwark Crown Court in October
The family of a “much-loved” Ealing mum who was strangled to death by her ex-partner have paid heartfelt tribute. Vivienne Baraka, 35, was found dead on her bathroom floor in March 2024 after being horrifically attacked by Alvin Gitahi, 43.
Gitahi, 43, of Uxbridge Road in Ealing, was found guilty of murder at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, August 6. 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.”
At about 3.15pm on March 26, 2024 worried neighbours in Riverside Close called police over fears for Vivienne’s safety. Officers and paramedics arrived to discover her with bruising to her face and neck and burst blood vessels in her eyes after being strangled.
Despite their best efforts she was pronounced dead at the scene. Gitahi was subsequently arrested and electronic devices were seized from the address.
Messages between the pair revealed Vivienne was subject to repeated abusive behaviour, while Vivienne had rung her mother hours before she died to say she was in danger. Following extensive enquiries Gitahi was charged with murder 18 months later on October 8, 2025.
Following his guilty verdict, Gitahi will be sentenced at Southwark Crown Court during the week commencing Monday, October 19. Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Denby, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts are with Vivienne’s loved ones, who have lost a mother, daughter and a friend.
“This is a devastating case where a young woman has been subject to ongoing violence in her own home, culminating in her tragic death. While no outcome can undo this loss, we hope today’s conviction 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.”
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.
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