In a devastating accident on Friday evening, June 30, a truck collided with several vehicles and market traders, resulting in at least 51 deaths, as confirmed by local police.
The site of the accident, located around 125 miles northwest of Nairobi, Kenya, is an area notorious for fatal crashes. Tom Odera, the Rift Valley Police Commander, confirmed that 51 deaths were accounted for at the scene, but expressed worry over the possibility of more victims trapped within the wreckage. The Kenya Red Cross Society reported 32 injured individuals who are currently receiving treatment in surrounding hospitals and made a public call for blood donations.
Complicating rescue efforts was the heavy rainfall that fell over the area, leaving some victims trapped inside the mangled vehicles. In reaction to this devastating incident, Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen visited the scene and revealed plans to move markets away from highways to avoid similar future accidents.
President William Ruto expressed his sorrow and condolences to the victims’ families on Twitter, emphasizing the need for careful driving on the country’s roads. Eyewitnesses narrated how the truck veered off the highway, striking several vehicles and pedestrians, including traders. Disturbing images of the scene circulated on social media, showing the horrifying wreckage.
Rescue operations persisted overnight as confirmed by police on Friday. Stations were set up at local hospitals by the Kenyan Red Cross Society, serving as points of contact for people to report their missing family members, as well as offering psychological support to those affected by the disaster.