Mwalimu Ronald Oyombe, aged 48, died in a motorbike accident involving a truck, just hours after reporting to his new station. The accident occurred along the Migori-Sori road, near Aego, Akala Primary School, at around 8 PM, bringing a heartbreaking end to what was supposed to be a day of celebration for his family.
According to witnesses, the accident happened along the infamous Conner S, a dangerous stretch of road known for frequent accidents. Mr. Oyombe, who hailed from Obolo, Muhuru Ward, was on his way home from Gogo Primary School, where he had just reported as the Head of Institution on the same day. The head teacher died on the spot after a loaded truck rammed into his motorbike.
“The truck hit him hard on the head, and broke his right leg, killing him instantly,” said Richard Oyombe, the family spokesman. Richard further explained that the truck involved in the accident only had one functioning headlight, which might have led Mwalimu Ronald to mistake it for a motorbike. The truck was carrying traders returning from the nearby Ong’er Market and did not stop immediately after the collision, prompting residents to block the road with stones to prevent it from fleeing.
The family received the devastating news from a cousin based in Nairobi, who was informed by one of the first responders at the accident scene. The responder identified the deceased through a school leaving certificate belonging to one of his daughters, which was found in a small bag that Mr. Oyombe was carrying. “At the time of the accident, Mwalimu only had his mobile phone and a small sack of maize along with the certificate,” said Richard.
Police officers from Macalder were called to the scene, and they transported Mr. Oyombe’s body to the nearby Nyatike Police Station. From there, it was later transferred to Migori District Hospital morgue after informing the family members. Richard described the tragic loss as a significant blow to both the family and the teaching fraternity. “This is a great tragedy to the family and the teaching community. Mr. Oyombe was a loving father, a kindhearted man, eloquent, hardworking, and very friendly,” he said.
The truck involved in the accident is currently being held at Macalder Police Station, and the family has yet to meet the alleged driver of the vehicle. As the investigation continues, plans for Mr. Oyombe’s burial are underway, with the ceremony set for September 27. The late Mwalimu Ronald Oyombe leaves behind a grieving family, including six children and two wives. One of his daughters is set to sit for her Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams in October, adding to the family’s burden during this difficult time.
Adding to the family’s distress, it was discovered that Mwalimu Ronald had recently withdrawn money from an Mpesa shop on his way home, which was stolen at the accident scene. This incident has compounded the family’s sense of loss and injustice, as they cope with the sudden death of a beloved family member.
The tragic accident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that many road users face daily, especially in areas known for frequent accidents. The family and the community are left mourning a man who was dedicated to his work, his family, and his community. The teaching fraternity has also lost a valued colleague who had just embarked on a new journey in his career.
As the family makes funeral arrangements, the community is rallying to support them during this time of immense grief. The accident has also reignited calls for improved road safety measures along the Migori-Sori road, particularly in accident-prone areas like Conner S, to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
