Several people are feared dead following a head-on collision between a matatu shuttle and a truck. The accident occurred near Soy market, a narrow section of the road known for its heavy traffic and sharp bends.
Eyewitnesses reported that the matatu, which was headed to Eldoret, collided with the oncoming truck traveling to Kitale. The impact was so severe that it left some of the passengers trapped in the mangled wreckage of the matatu.
Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, with police cordoning off the area to manage the chaotic traffic situation. Rescue operations were immediately launched to free the injured and recover the deceased. Several victims were rushed to nearby hospitals in Eldoret for emergency medical attention.
One witness, a boda boda rider who was nearby when the accident occurred, described the scene as horrifying. “I heard a loud bang, and when I rushed to the scene, I saw people screaming for help. The matatu was completely destroyed, and some passengers were pinned inside,” he said.
Preliminary investigations by the police indicate that the accident may have been caused by one of the vehicles attempting to overtake in the narrow section. Authorities are also looking into whether poor road signage and the lack of proper markings contributed to the tragic incident.
The Eldoret-Kitale road is a vital link for residents and businesses in the region but has increasingly become a hotspot for accidents. Local leaders and road safety advocates have called on the government to improve road infrastructure, install speed bumps, and enforce strict traffic regulations to reduce such fatal occurrences.
As the nation mourns yet another tragic loss of lives on its roads, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for heightened vigilance and responsible driving. The police have urged motorists to exercise caution, especially during the festive season, when road traffic tends to increase.
Efforts to identify the victims are ongoing, and families affected by the tragedy are being contacted. The authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to establish the exact cause of the accident.
