There is bloodbath at remote village situated at Londiani Junction in Kericho county where at least 55 people are feared dead so far and scores injured a truck veered off the road before plunging into people and businesses situated by the roadside this evening.
Those injured were declared dead at the scene of the incident while others were pronounced dead upon arrival at the in Kericho County Referral Hospital.
President William Ruto has led the country in mourning the tragic incident and prayed for the recovery of those injured.
“The country mourns with the families who have lost loved ones in a horrific road accident in Londiani, Kericho County. It is distressing that some of the fatalities are young people with a promising future and business people who were on their daily chores. We pray for the speedy recovery of all survivors; you are in our thoughts. We urge motorists to be extra cautious on roads, especially now when we are experiencing heavy rainfall.” The president has said.
The 6.30pm accident occurred after a truck lost control, running over pedestrians, business people and matatus which were parked by the roadside.
The truck was heading to Kericho before it lost control and veered off the road, ramming into tens of hawkers who were busy along the Nakuru-Kericho highway.
According to eye witnesses, the driver of the truck was trying to avoid hitting a bus that was parked on the road after developing a mechanical hitch before losing control.
Several Nissan matatus were damaged beyond recognition during the evening accident.
According to Londiani OCPD Agnes Kunga, the rescue is still going on with several bodies still trapped inside vehicles with some under the truck.
More than 60 people have so far been rushed to different hospitals in Londiani, Kericho and Nakuru where they are currently receiving treatment.
Rescue efforts have been slowed by heavy rains being witnessed at the scene.
The OCPD said the number of casualties could be more, but that the relevant authorities will give a proper brief later.
