On October 8, 2024, the Monrovia City Court delivered an important ruling regarding the case of 25-year-old Malison Garpeh, who stands accused of committing a horrific double murder. The court sentenced Garpeh to jail, pending trial, for the brutal murders of his girlfriend, 21-year-old Promise Gowah, who was six months pregnant, and her six-year-old daughter, Faith Miracle Davies. The acts of violence reportedly took place on September 27, 2024, and if convicted, Garpeh could face either 50 years of imprisonment or even a life sentence due to the severity of the allegations against him.
The investigation led by the Liberia National Police revealed chilling details surrounding the crime. According to the police, the relationship between Garpeh and Gowah had lasted for less than a year, and they were cohabiting in a three-bedroom house located in Hast Town, Robertsville, Montserrado County. Notably, Faith Miracle Davies was born prior to Gowah’s relationship with Garpeh, adding another layer of tragedy to the case. The police charge sheet indicates that both victims suffered gruesome injuries inflicted with a weapon, which led to charges of Murder and Aggravated Assault against Garpeh.
Eyewitness accounts and police findings allege that on the night leading up to the murder, both Gowah and her daughter were present with Garpeh in their shared home. The police narrative describes a scene of domestic conflict where the murders occurred under particularly dire circumstances, signifying an extreme disregard for human life. Garpeh allegedly fled the scene shortly after committing the crime and spent three days hiding in a nearby cassava farm before being apprehended by law enforcement, who were prompted to search for him by concerned community members.
While the specific motive for the brutal killings remains unclear, the family of the victims alludes to a potential trigger involving a traditional charm discovered by Gowah while washing Garpeh’s clothes. The family claims this revelation led to a confrontation between the couple. There are also reports that Garpeh had expressed suspicions about Gowah’s fidelity, believing that her pregnancy might not be his—a belief that could have exacerbated tensions leading up to the tragic events. Such emotional strains appear to have been pivotal in the lead-up to the violent outburst.
As proceedings continue, Garpeh’s future hinges on the outcome of the trial where the prosecution will present evidence of guilt. The possibility of a long-term sentence or even life imprisonment underscores the gravity of the charges he faces and the societal implications of such a domestic tragedy. The unexpected loss of the young mother and her child has shocked many in the Monrovia community, sparking conversations about domestic violence and its impact on families.
In conclusion, the horrific murders of Promise Gowah and Faith Miracle Davies at the hands of Malison Garpeh highlight significant issues surrounding domestic violence, relationship dynamics, and community safety. As the court prepares to hear the evidence in the trial, the case serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the severe consequences that often accompany disputes in intimate relationships. The decision surrounding Garpeh’s fate will not only determine justice for the victims but also serve as a reflection of societal attitudes toward violence in domestic settings in Liberia.
