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A devastating road accident at Iguhu River Yala Bridge along the Kisumu-Kakamega Road Wednesday evening left 13 people dead and 20 others seriously injured, plunging the region into mourning.
The accident happened around 6 p.m. when a speeding petrol tanker traveling from Kisumu to Kakamega lost control after hitting a bump. The tanker veered off its lane and slammed into two oncoming matatus, causing catastrophic damage. Seven people died instantly, while others succumbed to their injuries during treatment at various hospitals.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with mangled vehicles and rescue teams struggling to free trapped passengers. The two matatus, one belonging to Mitrans Sacco and the other to Transline Sacco, were traveling toward Kisumu at the time of the collision. The tanker, reportedly in poor mechanical condition with worn-out tires, became uncontrollable after hitting the bump.
Ikolomani OCPD James Makau confirmed the initial death toll of 10, which rose to 13 by Thursday morning as three more victims succumbed to their injuries. Speaking to the press, Makau explained that the tanker’s driver and co-driver fled the scene and are now being sought by police.
“We suspect the tanker’s driver and his assistant escaped after the accident. Police have launched a manhunt to apprehend them and get to the bottom of this tragedy,” Makau said.
Survivors of the crash were rushed to Kakamega General Hospital, Mbale General Hospital, and Iguhu Sub-County Hospital, where medical teams worked to save lives. Governor Fernandes Barasa visited the injured, and offered condolences to families who lost their loved ones and urged survivors to remain hopeful.
“This is a tragic day for our county. I extend my deepest sympathies to the affected families and urge traffic authorities to take urgent measures to prevent such accidents,” said Governor Barasa.
The governor renewed calls for the reintroduction of a roadblock near the accident scene, a measure he said could deter speeding and ensure vehicles are roadworthy. He further emphasized the need for heightened vigilance as the December holiday season approaches, a period often marked by increased travel and higher accident rates.
“Had the roadblock been operational, this tanker with worn-out tires might have been stopped. I also appeal to drivers to exercise caution to avoid more lives being lost on our roads,” he added.
Police are investigating the circumstances of the accident, including reports that both matatus were speeding at the time of the crash. Authorities have also moved the bodies of the deceased to Kakamega County General Hospital, where families have been urged to help identify their loved ones. The wreckage of the vehicles remains at the scene as investigators piece together the events that led to the fatal collision.
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