Convicted Drunk Driver Returned to California 13 Years After Fleeing to Kenya
October 23, 2026 - The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announces the return of wanted fugitive Sancho Kibutu to the United States for sentencing. Kibutu was previously convicted of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated in Madera County, California. He was arrested by local authorities in Nairobi, Kenya, on September 9, 2026, at the request of the United States, and returned to the United States on October 23, 2026.
“Sancho Kibutu fled to Kenya to avoid responsibility for a fatal drunk driving accident that seriously injured three other people. He underestimated the FBI’s resolve,” said FBI Sacramento Special Agent in Charge Brian Tosh. “The FBI actively and regularly collaborates with our domestic and international law enforcement partners to ensure every defendant answers their charges in a court of law, ensuring justice for crime victims.”
According to court records, on August 13, 2011, Kibutu’s vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic on Golden State Boulevard and collided head-on with a vehicle carrying four individuals. Kibutu, who was intoxicated, sustained minor injuries. A passenger in the other vehicle was killed, and three others were seriously injured.
A Madera County jury convicted Kibutu of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated on April 13, 2013, following a three-day trial. He was ordered to return to court for sentencing on October 28, 2013, but fled to Kenya before the hearing.
The U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation greatly appreciates the work done by the Kenyan Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Directorate of Criminal Investigations in successfully tracking down Kibutu and securing his extradition. This continues to demonstrate the close collaborative partnership between the United States and Kenya on international criminal matters.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the Madera County District Attorney’s Office, FBI and Kenyan authorities to secure the arrest and extradition of Kibutu.
The FBI continues to work with domestic and international law enforcement partners to apprehend individuals charged with state crimes who flee the jurisdiction. Cases seeking information from the public, including fugitive matters, are posted on the FBI’s Most Wanted webpage and the FBI Most Wanted app.
FBI Sacramento
FBI Sacramento Press Office
(916) 746-8106
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
