In a devastating accident on a Friday evening, a truck collided with several vehicles and market traders, resulting in at least 51 deaths, as confirmed by local police.
The tragic event took place approximately 125 miles northwest of Nairobi, Kenya in an area known for frequent vehicular accidents. Rift Valley Police Commander Tom Odera confirmed the death toll while also expressing fears about possible additional victims trapped in the wreckage. Meanwhile, the Kenya Red Cross Society reported that 32 victims were injured and currently undergoing treatment in nearby medical facilities. They also requested blood donations from the public to aid in the treatment.
Rescue operations faced significant challenges due to heavy rainfall, making the grim situation even more difficult and leaving a number of individuals trapped within the wreckage.
As a measure to prevent similar incidents in the future, Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen, after visiting the accident site, announced intentions to relocate marketplaces away from busy highways.
Kenya’s President, William Ruto, took to Twitter to offer his sympathies to the families affected by the tragedy, urging motorists nationwide to be more cautious on the roads. The horrific incident reportedly began when the truck veered off the main highway and struck multiple vehicles and pedestrians, including marketplace traders. Witness-shared images showed the heartbreaking wreckage and devastation.
Police reported that rescue efforts continued through the night. The Kenyan Red Cross Society set up posts at local hospitals where concerned relatives could report missing family members. They also provided psychological support for those impacted by the catastrophic event.
