Several people are feared dead while many others were injured after a horrific road accident involving a truck and a public service vehicle (PSV) matatu along the busy Bungoma-Eldoret Highway on Saturday afternoon.
The accident happened at around 3:00 pm in the Chimoi area, causing panic among motorists and residents who witnessed the tragic incident.
Preliminary reports indicate that the truck lost control, overturned, and landed directly on top of a 14-seater matatu that was carrying passengers.
The impact of the crash left the matatu completely crushed, trapping several passengers inside the wreckage. Videos and photos circulating online showed desperate victims crying for help as rescuers struggled to reach them.
Residents living near the accident scene, together with motorists who had stopped to assist, immediately launched rescue efforts.
They worked tirelessly in an attempt to free those trapped beneath the heavy truck using the limited tools available.
However, the rescue operation proved difficult because there was no heavy lifting equipment at the scene.
The truck’s weight made it nearly impossible for volunteers to access some of the victims, forcing emergency responders to race against time while waiting for additional support.
The crash caused a major traffic snarl-up along the Bungoma-Eldoret Highway, leaving hundreds of motorists stranded for several hours. Long queues of vehicles quickly formed as rescue operations continued on the busy road.
The Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association (LoDDCA) urged motorists to avoid the area where possible and seek alternative routes. Drivers who had no option but to use the highway were advised to expect significant delays until the wreckage was cleared.
Police officers and emergency response teams arrived at the scene to coordinate rescue efforts and manage traffic.
By the time of reporting, authorities had not confirmed the exact number of people who had died or sustained injuries, as rescue operations were still ongoing.
The latest accident adds to growing concerns over road safety in Kenya, where fatal crashes continue to claim lives on major highways.
Authorities have repeatedly urged motorists to observe traffic rules, avoid speeding, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy to help reduce the increasing number of accidents.
Investigations into the cause of the Chimoi crash are expected to begin once rescue operations are completed and the scene has been cleared.
Authorities are expected to release an official update on the number of casualties after all victims have been accounted for.
