This equivocal death evaluation was prepared by the following supervisory special agents, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), National Centre for the Analysis of Violent Crime, Behavioural Analysis Unit (BAU): Unit Chief Larry G. Ankrom, Christopher Lawlor, Wayne D. Lord, Thomas M. Neer, Mary Ellen OToole, Mark Safarik and Armin A. Showalter. This BAU analysis is based on a review of case materials and other information submitted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington Field Office, Washington, DC.

The observations, opinions and suggestions contained herein are the result of knowledge drawn from the personal investigative experience, educational background, and specialised training and research conducted by members of the BAU. This analysis is not a substitute for a thorough, well-planned investigation and should not be considered all-inclusive. The information provided is based upon probabilities.

The experienced FBI special agents and other professionals who comprise the BAU staff provide advice and support in the general area of violent crime. The BAU staff review crimes from both behavioural and investigative perspectives. 

This analysis has been prepared at the request of Thomas P. Carey, assistant special agent in charge, Washington Field Office, FBI and is based upon information made available to the BAU. Materials which were reviewed included but were not limited to: 111 interview summaries, Dr Alex Olumbe's medical examiner's report; Dr Vincent Di Maio's report, FBI laboratory analyses, crime scene photographs and letters written by the victim. However, the following critical documentation was not available for review and inclusion in this analysis: the victim's psychiatric, medical and military records. Certain aspects of this analysis may therefore be subject to modification depending on the information contained in those records.

At the time of this analysis, the facts and circumstances of the FBI's investigation, medical examiner's report and death scene examination do not support the conclusion that the manner of the victim's death was accidental. Although accidental and natural causes were thoroughly considered, this report evaluates Father Kaiser's death as either a homicide or suicide.

A consultation on this case was held at the Offices of the Criminal Incident Response Group, National Centre for the Analysis of Violent Crime (NCAVC), BAU, on October 12, 2000. In addition, two members of the BAU travelled to Kenya where they conducted police debriefings, reviewed physical evidence and other case materials, conducted interviews, visited Father Kaiser's residence as well as the death scene and retraced his movements during the 36 hours prior to his death.

Case Summary

I. Victimology

Information on Victimology was obtained from interviews conducted by FBI agents.

One's vulnerability to becoming a victim of a violent crime is examined in conjunction with a review of one's lifestyle, reputation, personal history and behaviour, particularly one's behaviour during the period of time immediately preceding one's death.

Background

Father Kaiser was born on November 29, 1933, in Perham, Minnesota, USA. He had two siblings, a brother and a sister. He grew up on the family farm near Underwood, Minnesota. He attended college for two years before enlisting in the US Army in 1957.

Father Kaiser reportedly had a strong desire to help people and decided early in life to become a missionary. He completed his BA degree in 1960 and immediately joined the Mill Hill Missionary Order which at the time was the single largest missionary group in the world. Father Kaiser studied in London for four years and was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in 1964.

Pastoral Activities in Kenya

Following his ordination in 1964, Father Kaiser was assigned to teach at a seminary in Kenya.

Thereafter, he served as a priest in western Nairobi. He was described as an "activist" priest who championed a variety of causes including human rights and land issues. He was a vocal opponent of abortion and was concerned about the Aids problem in Africa. He was described as an advocate for the Kenyan people and a strong, vocal critic of the Kenyan government which he believed was corrupt.

In February 1999, Father Kaiser testified before the Akiwumi Commission on ethnic violence and "land clashes" which occurred in Kenya during the 1990s. In his testimony, and in statements he repeated many times thereafter, Father Kaiser alleged that senior Kenyan government officials, including President Moi and Ministers Nicholas Biwott, William ole Ntimama and Julius Sunkuli, helped foster the violence.

In January 1995, Father Kaiser was reassigned to the Lolgorian parish to work primarily with the Maasai. Father Kaiser believed the government of Kenya sometimes favoured and sometimes exploited the Maasai people.

Father Kaiser had a history of disputes with Julius Sunkuli, a high-profile political figure and current minister in the Kenyan government, concerning allegations of illicit land deals, political manipulation and voter fraud. However, most significant were allegations against Sunkuli that he repeatedly had intercourse with, and at times impregnated, underage girls. Father Kaiser became an advocate for two 14-year-old girls who were allegedly "defiled."

Father Kaiser had been advised by at least one Mill Hill colleague, as well as by others, not to become involved in this cause because it was a "tribal issue" and a "no-win" situation. Given Father Kaiser's strong passion for aiding victims, it was believed that he intended to hold Sunkuli fully acountable for his behaviour and criminally prosecuted him for defilement. He solicited the assistance of the Federation International d'Advocate (FIDA), an international organisation dedicated to the advocacy of women's legal issues. Ultimately, neither girl was willing to testify.

Communication Style

Father Kaiser was described as vigorous and self-sufficient. He was known to be confrontational and at times having an "in your face" style. The leadership of the Catholic Church did not fully approve of this style, as it created tension between the church and the Kenyan Government. The Bishop of Ngong Diocese had reportedly cautioned Father Kaiser about his confrontational style, but the priest's behaviour continued.

Father Kaiser volunteered to work as chaplain at the Maela camp and began interacting with the local United Nations office which was providing food rations to the people at Maela. He believed that the United Nations did not respond to the problems of the camp's residents in a meaningful way because it allegedly did not want to alienate President Moi. He told his family and friends that he thought President Moi and a number of select Cabinet members were ultimately responsible for what he considered to be the shameful mistreatment of the Maela camp residents and the circumstances that originally forced them into the camp.

Father Kaiser allegedly wrote a letter to the Pope complaining that the local bishop was not following the precepts of the church. When the bishop learned of Father Kaiser's actions, he reportedly became upset.

Father Kaiser was known to hunt on Maasai land whenever he needed food despite this being a serious violation of Kenyan law. On one occasion, he was arrested and fined for "poaching."

Medical/physical health history

The following medical information was obtained from interviews conducted by FBI agents: 

Father Kaiser reportedly had not been sleeping well for at least 18 months prior to his death. He was reportedly having nightmares and was heard screaming in his sleep. He described a dream in which he was being pursued and was going to be killed. As a result of these fears, he reportedly stopped sitting on the porch, fearful that someone might kill him. He also started sleeping with his shotgun.

Several days before his death, Father Kaiser complained about having extreme thirst, and he was observed consuming large quantities of water. During this time, he reportedly experienced stomach cramps and was seen vomiting. The cause of these problems remains undetermined.

Father Kaiser confided to a colleague that he was concerned he might have prostate cancer. However, during the postmortem examination, it was determined he had a benign enlarged prostate.

According to a colleague, the neck injury which Father Kaiser suffered in the early 1990s appeared to be getting worse, and he continued to wear a neck brace regularly.

A colleague of Father Kaiser observed that he was becoming forgetful, and that he began taking gingko bilboa, a herbal supplement, to improve his memory. A colleague also recalled that Father Kaiser would periodically forget to cash cheques issued to him by the church.

Mental Health History

When conducting an equivocal death analysis, the mental health history of the victim is very important, especially if there is an indication or suggestion of prior mental health problems. Information was extracted from interviews with family members, friends and associates. Anecdotal information regarding Father Kaiser's two previous psychiatric hospitalisations was utilised in this analysis.

Father Kaiser was assigned to St Joseph's Mill Hill Mission near Albany, New York during 1968. During a subsequent trip to New York City, Father Kaiser was reportedly taken into custody by the New York City Police Department, and he was admitted to Bellevue Hospital for psychiatric evaluation. He reportedly resisted the NYPD officers as they took him into custody.

According to a longtime personal associate, Father Kaiser sought medical attention in the early 1970s at a hospital in St Paul, Minnesota. This associate recalled that after Father Kaiser began taking medication to treat this condition, he quickly recovered from his diagnosed depression.

A family member, who immediately visited Father Kaiser at the time of his admission to Bellevue Hospital, recounted that he was heavily medicated at that time. The family had him transferred to St Vincent's Hospital, Manhattan, New York, where he was evaluated for three more days. After his release, he immediately returned to Kenya and resumed his priestly duties in Kisii Diocese through 1990.

According to his family, Father Kaiser was diagnosed with manic depression during the early 1980s. Investigators learned from family members that there was a history of this illness in the Kaiser family. During a visit home in the early 1980s, family members observed that Father Kaiser began experiencing symptoms, including sleep deprivation followed by extreme agitation. He became increasingly agitated and because of his imposing size, a concerned family member contacted law enforcement officials who transported him to St Joseph's Hospital in St Paul, Minnesota, where he was admitted and treated by Dr Louis Flynn.

According to family members and friends, Dr Flynn prescribed lithium for the manic-depression. However, there is no indication he ever used this medication following his return to Kenya and this was an expressed concern of family members.

Military history and knowledge of weapons

Father Kaiser enlisted in the US Army in 1957 and was trained as a paratrooper. During his tenure, he was promoted to sergeant, but according to a family member, he was subsequently demoted because of conflicts with subordinates.

Father Kaiser was very familiar with and knowledgeable about firearms. At one time, he possessed several of them, including one given to him by a fellow priest.

II. Stressors

Sleep disturbances and health issues

Father Kaiser's chronic neck problems, his fears of having prostate cancer and long-term effects of typhoid and malaria (which he contracted in Kenya) were concerns for him. He was reportedly having problems with stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration. He advised associates that he was having problems sleeping and having recurring nightmares.

Job Stress

Father Kaiser had championed the case of two girls allegedly defiled by Julius Sunkuli. The girls' decision not to testify appears to have been a significant disappointment for him. He had expended a great deal of his own money in this case, and he had intended to expose Sunkuli for his behaviour. Additionally, he had hoped to prove to the bishop and fellow priests that his involvement in this case was worthwhile and his methods effective.

Father Kaiser had recently been summoned and appeared before the papal nuncio on August 22, 2000. At the time of the summons, he was unaware of the underlying reason(s) for this meeting, but alluded to the possibility of admonishment. Although he advised others following this visit that the papal nuncio only wanted to solicit his opinion as to who should replace the existing bishop, he, nevertheless, continued to appear stressed and acted strangely.

Medical Examiner's Report

The postmortem examination of Father Kaiser was conducted on Saturday, August 26, 2000, by Dr Alex Olumbe. Dr Olumbe did not attend the death scene.

Dr Vincent Di Maio, Chief Medical Examiner, Bexar County, Texas, was identified as a leading expert in the US on gunshot wounds. At the request of the FBI, Dr Di Maio reviewed numerous pertinent documents that included, but were not limited to, the autopsy protocol, 36 colour photographs of the death scene and 27 colour photographs of Father Kaiser's body at the morgue. Dr Di Maio opined that Father Kaiser died as the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

External ExaminationUpper Limbs

Dr Olumbe noted blood spatter on the dorsum of Father Kaiser's right hand. A review of the death scene photographs revealed, as noted by Dr Di Maio, that the position of Father Kaiser's body on the ground allowed his right hand to come in contact with blood escaping from his head wound. The BAU would concur that the presence of blood on Father Kaiser's right hand is not related to direct disposition from the shotgun blast.

Cause of death: gunshot wound to the head

Point 1

Dr Olumbe identified stippling of the scalp and inferred that this stippling was the result of shotgun shell filler.

Dr Di Maio, in his report, identified the stippling as "powder tatooing" and not the result of filler. Powder tattooing only extends out to a maximum range of one metre and therefore is much more consistent with a shorter muzzle-to-target distance.

Point 2

Dr Olumbe noted that the destruction of the cranial cavity resulted from the expenditure of energy that produced severe internal pressure and extensive cavitation.

Dr Di Maio noted, "This indicates that the wound was either an angled contact or a near contact."

Point 3

Dr Olumbe noted the absence of soot soiling at the entry site.

Dr Di Maio stated the following, "While soot is usually present in close range gunshot wounds, in shotguns this is not invariably so due to the long barrel and the nature of the powder used. The powder tattooing, however, indicates unequivocally that one is dealing with a close range wound. Its presence is more reliable than soot in that it cannot be wiped away, which is not the case for soot."

Additional observations

Dr Di Maio was in receipt of information that the FBI Laboratory had identified, through DNA analysis, that the blood on the barrel of the shotgun was exclusively Father Kaiser's.

Blood spatter on the trousers and left shoe was identified as significant when considered in the context of reconstructing the sequence of events of the shooting. Dr Di Maio opined that when individuals shoot themselves on the right side of the head, they typically place the butt of the gun on the ground in front of and to the right of themselves while standing. They lean over and rest their head on the tip of the barrel while holding it with the left hand. If Father Kaiser had assumed this position, then the lap of his trousers would have been protected from blood spatter. The noted absence of such spatter by investigators supports Dr Di Maio's observation. The blood spatter identified on Father Kaiser's right knee and lower left pant and shoe would be consistent with the fore-mentioned position.

Drs Olumbe, Di Maio and Kituyi agreed that Father Kaiser showed no evidence of other injuries beyond some superficial scratches and bruising. 

IV. FBI forensic examination – blood stain pattern analysis

On March 14, 2001, the FBI Laboratory conducted an examination of the following articles of clothing worn by Father Kaiser at the time of his death: Q15 – jacket, Q16 – pants, Q17 – belt, Q18 – sweater, Q19 – shirt, Q20 – shirt, Q21 – scarf, Q22, Q23 – socks and Q24, Q25 – shoes, to evaluate the bloodstain patterns present and to determine, if possible, the presence of one or more additional participant(s) in the death of the victim.

Blood stains were noted on the right knee and bottom margin of the left leg of Q16 – pants. The FBI examiner offered the following opinion: "... the location, orientation, and physical appearance of both of these projected bloodstain patterns is also consistent with having been the result of a single large volume of projective bleeding event that forcefully struck the victim at the level of the right knee, deposited, and subsequently gave rise to a lesser secondary volume that ricocheted from this surface and deposited on the victim's inner left thigh, lower left leg and left shoe."

The examiner also offered the following opinion regarding the position of Father Kaiser at the time of his death:

"The location of these large volume patterns... are consistent with the victim having been in a seated position with his legs out in front of his torso, his knees bent, and with his right knee being the closer of the two to his chest."

The examiner concluded by indicating that, "... no spurious bloodstain patterns were identified that would have required the active involvement of one or more unidentified participants in the victim's fatal event sequence."

On its surface, the FBI examination may appear to contradict Mr Di Maio's opinion on the victim's position during the event. On closer review, however, it is clear that the reconstructed position as described independently by the FBI examiner is entirely consistent with the position as described independently by Dr Di Maio. Father Kaiser's position, as described by the FBI examiner, is in essence the same position as described by Dr Di Maio after being rotated 90 degrees.

Opinion

Dr Di Maio advised that he would classify the manner of death as suicide due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Dr Olumbe, although not specifically offering an opinion on the manner of death, presented physical observations that are indicative of a contact or near-contact wound. This observation would be consistent with Dr Di Maio's. The FBI examination of the clothing and related bloodstains is consistent with the observations made by both Drs Olumbe and Di Maio. The reconstruction of the sequence of events as they relate to the position of Father Kaiser's body at the time he received the fatal injury, as detailed by both the FBI examiner and Dr Di Maio, are entirely consistent with each other.

V. Death scene analysis

The BAU conducted this portion of the analysis without the benefit of Kenyan police crime scene reports or a photographic log prepared by investigating officers.

The police secured the death scene and took photographs. Father Kaiser's body was found lying on a slight incline with his head at the top of the incline. He appeared to have suffered a massive gunshot wound to the head. There were pieces of skull fragments on the road. A double barrel shotgun was found lying near his feet. No identifiable shotgun pellets or wads were located.

A crime scene diagram was reviewed although it is missing compass identifiers, the date of preparation, the name of the officer who prepared the diagram, whether the diagram is to scale or not (it is assumed that this is not to scale), and distance measurements for the identified roads. The diagram lists (A) as a fixed point but does not identify what this fixed point is. Point is listed as "position of body."

None of the 36 colour print photographs includes an item of scale. This precludes an accurate determination of the size of the item or relationship to other items of evidence. In addition, the BAU was not provided with a photographic log to identify when these photographs were taken, from what direction, or in what sequence.

Photographs 1-25 were taken when both Father Kaiser's truck and his body were still at the scene. Photograph 26, the shotgun, is assumed to be at the scene but, there is no other reference point in the photograph. Photographs 27-29 appear to be disturbed scene photographs. In these photographs, it is clear that Father Kaiser's body has been moved. We have assumed that the photographs numerical order is indicative of the sequence in which they were taken. This would suggest that photographs 27-29 are not original crime scene photographs. Additionally, information provided by FBI's Washington Field Office indicates that Father Kaiser's glasses, a shotgun shell and wallet were originally located on his person and not in a pile on the ground as depicted in photographs 27-29.

Photograph 30 depicts the inside of the bed of the pickup truck, but it is not know when this photograph was taken. Photographs 31-36 appear to have been taken after Father Kaiser's body and truck were removed. There is nothing to indicate when these photographs were taken. This could even have been hours or days later.

A photograph of the shotgun (photograph 26) appears to be the only photograph of this item. Unfortunately there is nothing included for scale, and the gun was not photographed with another item in the scene to indicate its proximity to the body. A measurement was listed between and (E) shotgun as 6 meters but did not identify the location on Father Kaiser's body from which this measurement was made. This precludes providing an accurate assessment of the relationship between the gun and the body.

As listed on the diagram, the body was found approximately thirteen meters from a white Toyota truck which was in a ditch. The driver's side window of the vehicle was found to be broken, and an axe belonging to Father Kaiser was found in the truck. A set of sheets was laid out neatly near Father Kaiser's truck. The Kenya Police processed the truck for fingerprints and found a single print suitable for comparison. This print was identified as Father Kaiser's. The registration number of the truck was KXP 317. The Kenyan Police also collected as evidence from this truck, newspaper clippings, letters and personal correspondence.

Benson G Nguguga, Senior Assistant Commissioner of the Kenya Police, examined the shotgun. He is in charge of the Ballistics Section affiliated with CID, HQ. He has been a certified examiner since 1974. Nguguga noted that the left barrel of the shotgun had a fried shell. The right barrel of the shotgun was empty. The shotgun was taken into evidence.

Nguguga also examined Father Kaiser's body. He found a 12-gauge shotgun shell and a pair of glasses in the left side shirt pocket. He also found a gun permit with identification number 1259 in Father Kaiser's personal bag. These items were taken into evidence. Nguguga later confirmed that the serial number of the shotgun, 2580, matched the Government of Kenya's Firearms Owners Records for a shotgun registered to Father Kaiser.

Nguguga examined the white Toyota truck. Nguguga found Father Kaiser's clothing items, as well as five or six shotgun shells. In the glove compartment he found 16 "bullet-like" items. Nguguga did not find any indications of a primer in those items.

The front end of the truck was observed against a brick drainage culvert. The front quarter panel had been removed from the left side of the vehicle. No close-up photographs of the truck and its position in the ditch and against the cement culvert were taken. Uncorroborated information indicates that the truck, despite its position against this culvert, was not damaged from the collision. This suggests the truck probably struck the culvert while travelling at a very low speed. In a review of the death scene photographs, there appears to be only one set of tire trucks leading from the road to the location of Father Kaiser's truck. This would suggest that his vehicle was not forced off the road by another vehicle.

A review of the color photographs revealed no extraneous light provided by light standards in the area. This area would have been exceptionally dark except for ambient light provided by the starts.

A blanket and sheets, further identified as bedding (ID) on the diagram, were located to the driver's side of the vehicle, on the ground, in the culvert. The appearance of this suggest that at some point, subsequent to driving his vehicle, on the ground, in the culvert. The appearance of this suggests that at some point, subsequent to driving his truck into the ditch, Father Kaiser exited the vehicle and took some time to lay out several sheets and a blanket. These items presented the appearance of a bed. The also appeared to be undisturbed. When one considers the absence of ambient lighting, this activity would have taken some time to complete. There is nothing to suggest that Father Kaiser perceived he was in any danger. Despite the fact that he had an additional shotgun shell on his person (shirt pocket), he chose to load only a barrel of the shotgun. Father Kaiser also had access to the axe. There is nothing to indicate he removed the axe from the vehicle.

Crime scene investigators did not note any indications that a struggle had occurred at the scene. There were no other foot prints suggesting that others were with Father Kaiser at the scene. A review of the scene photographs of Father Kaiser's body revealed that his clothing was correctly positioned on his body and rips or tears were identified. This would argue against a struggle having occurred with an assailant. This lack of substantive identifiable trauma, beyond the shotgun would, would also be consistent with not having been involved in a physical confrontation.

VI. EQUIVOCAL EVALUATION OF VICTIM BEHAVIOUR AND DEATH SCENE

During the investigation of Father Kaisers death numerous friends, colleagues and associates described incidents of a typical behaviour demonstrated during the final days of his life. Descriptions such as "out of sorts," "tense," "scared," "haunted," and "manic-depressive" were used to describe Father Kaiser's behaviour. Father Kaiser also described his own recent actions as "paranoid". Investigators identified and examined these uncharacteristic moods, actions, and remarks in an effort to determine their relevance to Father Kaiser's death.

As part of an equivocal death evaluation, the BAU attempts to differentiate between factors that are consistent and inconsistent with the various manners of death: natural, accident, homicide, and suicide.

Natural

It is the BAUs opinion that no factors exist, which are consistent with a natural death.

Accident

It is the BAUs opinion that, although the possibility exists that an accidental discharge of Father Kaisers shotgun resulted in his death, several factors make this a remote possibility. These factors include Father Kaisers military training, his hunting experience, his familiarity with the shotgun that caused his death and the location of the wound site.

Additionally, crime scene examination, laboratory analyses, autopsy findings and an independent review conducted by Dr Vincent J M Di Maio revealed no specific factors consistent with an accidental death.

Homicide

It is the BAUs opinion that factors exist in the circumstances surrounding Father Kaisers death which may be consistent with homicide.

*Father Kaiser was described as having a confrontational personality. He was described as vigorous, self-sufficient, and, at times, confrontational. This is consistent with his past history as a college wrestler and a paratrooper. On at least three occasions, Father Kaiser reportedly acted aggressively toward others, including law enforcement officers. 

*Catholic priests have been murdered in Kenya in the past.

Father Kaiser's pastoral assignment was to a country with a history of armed robberies by bandits, unresolved murders of religious and political figures and a human rights record that has drawn criticism from the United States. He was specifically assigned to a parish in the remote area of the Transmara.

Five Catholic priests and deacons have been murdered in Kenya over the past 11 years. However, available information surrounding the deaths of these individuals is conflicting and incomplete. Therefore, it is not possible to accurately identify similarities or dissimilarities between their deaths and the death of Father Kaiser.

*Father Kaiser had a high political profile on controversial issues.

Father Kaisers accusations or wrongdoing by Kenyan Minister Julius Sunkuli, including allegations of the "defilement" of two young girls, placed him at the center of a recent, highly publicised political controversy.

Father Kaiser testified before the Akiwumi Commission on ethnic violence and alleged that senior Kenyan government officials fostered the violence

*Father Kaiser expressed concern about his life being threatened.

Father Kaiser expressed concern to several colleagues and associates regarding unspecified threats against his life, and he told others that he suspected that he was being followed. Additionally, in 1999, Father Kaisers residence had windows broken by unidentified individuals.

*Father Kaiser placed himself at risk for becoming the victim of a robbery-homicide.

The crime rate in Kenya is very high. Robberies involving extreme degrees of violence are also common occurrences, particularly after dark, and in the more remote areas of Kenya. Father Kaiser was alone, at night, on an isolated roadway.

It is BAUs opinion that factors exist in the circumstances surrounding Father Kaisers death which may be inconsistent with homicide.

*Father Kaiser died as a result of a single shot from his shotgun.

Individuals who plan and execute a murder generally do not rely on the victim to provide the weapon with which they commit the homicide. There was no forensic evidence (i.e fingerprints) on the weapon to indicate it was handled by anyone other than the victim.

There was no evidence of others at the death scene

There were no foreign fingerprints, foot impressions or tire trucks other than those belonging to Father Kaiser or his vehicle. No blood other than Father Kaisers was identified on his truck, the shotgun, the axe or his clothing. Additionally, there was no evidence to suggest that a struggle has taken place, such as torn clothing, defense wounds or additional injuries to Father Kaiser, nor was there any evidence that he had been controlled or restrained.

The guard at the nearby creamery told investigators that he heard only one vehicle driving on the road that night. The bedding adjacent to Father Kaiser's truck appeared undisturbed, suggesting that he had not been surprised. If others had assaulted Father Kaiser, their inability to see things clearly because of the poor lighting, would have resulted in a more disorganized death scene. Investigators determined that the truck, despite the position against the cement culvert, was not damaged from the collision. This suggest the truck probably struck the culvert while travelling at a very low speed. The identification of only one set of tire trucks suggests his vehicle was not forced off the road by another vehicle.

*Father Kaiser's training and experience prepared him for physical confrontations

Father Kaiser was in possession of an axe as well as a shotgun with appropriate ammunition. He had been trained as a paratrooper. He was an avid hunter and was proficient in the handling of various types of firearms. Despite his training, experience and possession of weapons with which he could have defended himself, there were not indications at the death scene suggesting that a struggle or fight occurred. The absence of any other injuries is contrary to what would have been expected if Father Kaiser had been confronted.

Items of value were found at the scene

*Items of value recovered at the scene included Father Kaisers truck, his wallet, cash, the shotgun, ammunition, sheets and blankets, clothing, including a leather jacket, eyeglasses, and an axe. There is no indication that any searching or ransacking had occurred at the death scene. The BAU opines that the fact that nothing was taken or disturbed at the scene would be highly inconsistent for an opportunistic robbery-homicide.

Father Kaiser lived in Kenya for approximately thirty-five (35) years and he was aware of the serious crime problems there. It is believed he would have avoided engaging in behaviour which would have unnecessarily elevated his risk of being victimised, including attempting to drive home at night, alone, on a remote roadway.

Significant travel in time and distance immediately prior to death

Father Kaiser had made plans to spend the night of August 23, 2000 at Mill Hill Mission. His departure from the mission to the Bishops residence came as a surprise to those at the mission. Upon arriving at the Bishops residence, he made subsequent plans to spend the night there. Just as suddenly, Father Kaiser departed the Bishops residence at approximately 7:00pm. He drove a circuitous route to Nadungungu, Kiambu, arriving at a remote gas station in Naivasha at approximately 11:30 pm. A night watchman in the vicinity of Naivasha-Nakuru old road junction reported hearing a truck driving up and down on a nearby access road between 12:00 am and 2:00 am. This same watchman told investigators he heard a loud noise at approximately 3:00 am. Investigators believe this loud noise to be a shotgun blast.

If this were a planned homicide rather than an opportunistic homicide motivated by financial gain (robbery), the BAU believes that it is extremely unlikely that those who planned the crime would have:

 1. Known about or anticipated Father Kaisers abrupt departures from either of the residences where he planned to spend the night.

 2. Followed Father Kaiser to various locations over a seven-hour time period without carrying out the homicide early on, when he would have been in an isolated and vulnerable position, travelling alone, at night, on a remote roadway.

 3. Been able to conduct a surveillance of Father Kaiser on his long and circuitous route, without having been seen or heard by others at the remote village, the gas station, or in the vicinity of the death scene.

Suicide

It is the BAUs opinion that factors exist in the circumstances surrounding Father Kaisers death which may be consistent with suicide.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) suicide statistics

Statistics provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, CDC, for 1998, reveals that 61.6 percent suicides committed by males in the United States were committed with firearms. The American Association of Suidology identified that three out of four men who commit suicide using a firearm shoot themselves in the head.

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 95 percent of all suicides occur at the peak of a depressive episode.

According to Father Kaisers sister, the Kaiser family has a history of manic depression

The BAU was unable to verify specific details regarding this history, due to unavailability of pertinent reports and medical records.

Father Kaiser reportedly had a history of manic depression

According to his family, it manifested itself in Father Kaiser beginning with sleep deprivation followed by extreme agitation. His history included a 1969 encounter with the New York City Police Department and subsequent impatient hospitalizations at both Bellevue and St. Vincents Hospitals in New York. During the early 1970s, Father Kaiser reportedly was diagnosed with depression and hospitalized in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Additionally, during the early 1980s, Father Kaiser was hospitalized at St. Joseph's Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota following an encounter with sheriffs deputies. Father Kaiser was treated by Dr Louis Flynn and prescribed Lithium for the treatment of manic depression.

Father Kaiser discontinued his use of medication

According to Father Kaisers family and colleagues, he discontinued the use of Lithium once he returned to Kenya. There were no indications that he sought or received additional treatment while in Kenya. The discontinued use of prescribed medication for this disorder would likely result in a recurrence of symptoms.

Father Kaiser had access to and familiarity with weapons

Father Kaiser was a former military paratrooper and avid hunter. As such, he had access to, and familiarity with, a variety of firearms. He was known to posses a legally registered shotgun and an unregistered hunting rifle. Acquaintances reported that Father Kaiser routinely had the shotgun in his possession. The weapon that inflicted the fatal injury belonged to him and had been in his possession immediately prior to his death.

Father Kaiser evidenced signs of deteriorating mental heath

As early as 18 months prior to his death, Father Kaiser experienced a recurrence of sleep deprivation and agitation. From January to June 199, Father Thomas Keane was ordered to live with Father Kaiser. During this period, Father Kaiser appeared to live in permanent fear and was experiencing significant problems sleeping. He often kept his shotgun with him in bed. When he would sleep, he would frequently wake up screaming from nightmares. Father Kaiser reportedly would remain awake at night, sitting in his room with his shotgun on his lap.

Father Kaiser expressed concerns over his deteriorating physical health

In the months prior to his death, Father Kaiser confided concerns to colleagues regarding his deteriorating health. These included memory loss, prostrate disease, increasing neck pain, sleeplessness, intestinal distress, and, in his own words, "paranoia".

Father Kaisers experienced recent personal disappointments

Father Kaiser, as previously mentioned, dedicated himself to championing the cause of two Kenya girls who accused Minister Sunkuli of sexual misconduct. In the weeks prior to his death, Father Kaiser became painfully aware that his efforts were in vain when the girls sought to have charges against Sunkuli dismissed. According to acquittances, these developments caused Father Kaiser significant disappointment.

Father Kaiser experienced a significant life stressor in the week prior to his death

In the week prior to his death, Father Kaiser was summoned to an audience with the Papal Nuncio in Nairobi. Initially, Father Kaiser was unaware of the nature of the summons and was extremely apprehensive that the Papal Nuncio might mandate his departure from Kenya. Father Kaiser had dedicated approximately 35 years to the service of the Kenyan people and considered Kenya to be his home. On the day of his scheduled meeting the Papal Nuncio (August 22,2000), Father Kaiser made arrangements with Father Francis Mwangi to be driven to the Papal Nunciature. This was considered unusual because Father Kaiser had his own vehicle and always drove himself while in Nairobi. During his ride, Father Kaiser secreted himself in the back seat of Brother Alphonses car as if he were wither hiding or trying to sleep. Brother Alphonse believed that Father Kaiser was "close to a breakdown."

There was significant breach of protocol with the Papal Nuncio

During the meeting with Papal Nuncio, Father Kaiser was tasked with preparing a written summary regarding suitable candidates to replace his Bishop. The Papal Nuncio instructed Father Kaiser to send his comments in two to three weeks. On the next day (August 23, 2000), Father Kaiser returned, unannounced, to the Papal Nunciature, handed over an unusually thin envelope, declined an invitation to discuss his comments with Papal Nuncio and left abruptly.

In the days prior to his death, Father Kaiser displayed a typical behaviour

In the days prior to Father Kaisers death, he repeatedly made unusual references to the pending termination of his life, including telling Father Boyle, on August 23, 2000, "I don't know if I will be alive tomorrow."

In the days prior to Father Kaisers death, he displayed periods of lively enthusiasm immediately followed by episodes of sadness and withdrawal.

On the day before his death, Father Kaiser made unexpected arrivals and abrupt, unannounced departures from the Mill Hill Mission and the Bishops residence. In addition, when Father Kaiser departed the Bishops residence, he inexplicably removed bedding from a guest room without asking permission or providing any explanation.

On August 23, 2000, after meeting with the Papal Nuncio, Father Kaiser drove out of town to a nearby missionary house and attempted to personally contact Father Robert Jalbert. Father Jalbert taught Father kaiser Swahili during a course in 1994. Father Kaiser left a note for Father Jalbert belatedly thanking him for his instruction. Father Jalbert found this to be highly unusual given that he had only sporadic contact with Father Kaiser since 199, and he was skeptical that the would even be able to recognize Father Kaiser.

On August 23, 2000, as he was leaving the Mill Hill Mission, Father Kaiser saw Father Patrick Ryan backing out of the parking lot. Father Kaiser ran up to him, shook his hand and said, "Goodbye, P.T." Father Ryan thought this was very strange. In the many years that the watchman had worked at the mission, he had rarely conversed with Father Kaiser and, when he did, these conversations were limited to coordinating arrival or departure instructions. While there, he asked Father Mwangi to contact Sister Nuala, a longtime associate, to thank her for all the good work she had done. Father Mwangi also found this to be strange.

In the days prior to his death, Father Kaiser displayed a typical behaviour

He failed to schedule and keep appointments.

He was seen crying during Mass.

He informed parishioners that the he was going on a long journey and that he would not return soon, even though no such trip appears to have been planned.

He announced to colleagues that he had not slept in three days.

He asked another priest to explain why he felt so "paranoid".

He appeared exceptionally nervous and frequently changed his mind.

He appeared solemn, worried, and withdrawn.

He was observed weeping at a group lunch.

He consumed large quantities of water.

He abruptly withdrew form an afternoon social gathering with fellow priests.

He became excessively agitated during a conversation with a fellow priest to the point where the priest feared getting slapped by him.

Father Kaiser displayed a typical behaviour in the hours before his death

On August 23, 2000, at 8.30 p.m., Father Kaiser arrived at a gas station in Naivasha. After engaging in casual conversation with other customers, Father Kaiser declined an offer of gas, even though he was a long distance from home and had money with him. At this gas station, Father Kaiser used an axe to remove a damaged fender from his truck. Father kaiser was alone, and no other vehicles were seen following him.

On August 24, 2000, between midnight and 2.00 am, a night watchman in the vicinity of where Father Kaisers body was later found, repeatedly saw and heard a vehicle, similar to Father Kaisers truck, driving on a nearby access road. At about 2:30 am, the same watchman heard a loud noise, similar to a shotgun blast, coming from the direction where Father Kaisers body was later found. Concerned for his own safety, the night watchman vigilantly looked and listened for other vehicles or persons, but heard and saw none in that area.

Father Kaiser's shotgun had only one barrel loaded. 

Crime scene investigators, upon examination of the shotgun determined not only one barrel of the double-barrelled shotgun had been loaded. Examination of Father Kaiser's shirt pocket revealed a second viable shotgun round. Father Kaiser would have realized that he only needed one round in order to kill himself.

It is the BAUs opinion that factors exist in the circumstances surrounding Father Kaisers death which may be inconsistent with suicide.

Father Kaiser held strong religious beliefs

Father Kaiser was an advocate of conservative Catholic Theology and suicide would be inconsistent with his theology.

Father Kaiser was dedicated to his parishioners

Father Kaiser was a dedicated and passionate priest, who, for than 35 years, served the poorest and most forgotten population of Kenya., He was instrumental in promoting social justice, and his work was very important to him.

Father Kaiser had survived previous bouts with manic depression

Father Kaiser survived in Kenya for more than 35 years without any known treatment or medication.

Father Kaiser embraced controversy, conflict, and challenges

Individuals who have experimented previous success in addressing problems, conflicts and difficulties in their lives tend to develop the ability to handle current problems. Father Kaiser, on a number of occasions, appeared to demonstrate a level of comfort in addressing a variety of controversial issues (See examples noted in the pastoral activities in Kenya section).

Father Kaiser had future plans

In a letter to his family dated August 17, 2000, Father Kaiser expressed hope that they would "all meet again and have a fishing trip up to the border waters of northern Minnesota, canoe country. The best time would be late August or September ... " It should be noted that Father Kaiser had informed others that he did not plan to return to the United States at least for a year.

Father Kaiser had indicated that he wanted to be included on the breakfast list at Mill Hill on August 24, 2000.

Upon leaving the Bishops residence on the evening of August 23, 2000, Father Kaiser told the gate guard that he would be returning later.

vii: CONCLUSION

Factors identified in the course of unequivocal death evaluations cannot be considered individually. The totality of circumstances developed from the review of victimology, investigation, medical examiners reports and death scene investigations is critical to the evaluation process. After analysing all the above information, it is the opinion of the BAU that the manner of death of Father John Anthony Kaiser is more consistent with a suicide that a homicide, and that his suicide resulted from a self inflicted gunshot wound to he head.

*Concluded