Kakamega

Eight Dead in Horror Crash as Matatu Collides with Stationary Trailer on Eldoret-Webuye Highway

LUGARI, KENYA — A devastating road traffic collision claimed eight lives and left five others critically injured after a passenger minibus crashed into a parked commercial vehicle on the Eldoret-Webuye highway late Tuesday evening.

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The tragedy unfolded when a 14-seater matatu traveling at high speed lost control, crossed into the opposite lane, and struck a stationary trailer laden with fertilizer near Lugari. The impact proved fatal for seven passengers who died instantly at the scene, while an eighth victim succumbed to injuries while being transported to a medical facility.

Western Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud confirmed the casualty figures, stating that the collision occurred after the matatu driver apparently failed to maintain control of the vehicle.

“The matatu veered off its designated lane and collided with a trailer that had been immobilized due to mechanical failure,” Mohamud explained. “Seven individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and unfortunately, another passenger died en route to hospital.”

Authorities revealed that the trailer had been stationed alongside the highway following a breakdown when the accident occurred. The driver of the commercial vehicle reportedly abandoned the scene following the collision, prompting police to launch a search operation.

Five survivors were extracted from the wreckage with severe injuries and immediately transferred to nearby health facilities for emergency treatment. Medical personnel have not disclosed the current condition of those hospitalized.

In the aftermath of the crash, local residents converged on the accident site, with some attempting to salvage fertilizer from the damaged trailer. Law enforcement officers later dispersed the crowd to secure the scene for investigation.

Photographic evidence circulating on digital platforms depicted the extent of the destruction, showing the minibus with its structural framework compromised, seating displaced, windows shattered, and tires deflated from the force of impact.

This incident contributes to an alarming surge in fatal road accidents recorded nationwide throughout December. Traffic safety advocates have expressed mounting concern over the escalating death toll on Kenyan roads during the current month, traditionally marked by increased travel activity.

Authorities have intensified calls for motorists to exercise heightened caution, observe speed limits, and ensure vehicles are roadworthy, particularly during the busy holiday season when traffic volumes increase significantly.

The Kenya National Police Service continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether excessive speed, driver fatigue, or mechanical defects contributed to the tragedy.