At least 15 people have died and 14 others sustained injuries following a tragic road accident involving multiple vehicles on the Kaplong-Kericho highway near the Taachasis area in Bomet County, Kenya.
According to Bomet Central Sub-County Police Commander Musa Omari, the crash occurred on Friday evening and involved a trailer, three matatus, and a private car. Initial investigations suggest the trailer experienced brake failure while descending a steep slope and collided with the other vehicles.
Witnesses described a horrific scene as the trailer ploughed through the oncoming vehicles, causing extensive damage and instant fatalities. Emergency responders, including the Kenya Red Cross and police, rushed to the scene to rescue the injured and retrieve the bodies.
The injured were taken to Longisa County Referral Hospital and Kapkatet Sub-County Hospital, where they are receiving treatment. Authorities confirmed that among the deceased were passengers and drivers of the matatus and the private vehicle.
Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok, who visited the scene, expressed his condolences to the affected families and called for enhanced road safety measures along the busy highway. He also urged motorists, especially those operating heavy vehicles, to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and to observe caution, particularly on hilly terrain.
Police have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash, and efforts are ongoing to identify all the victims and notify their families. The wreckage has since been cleared to restore normal flow of traffic along the highway.
Nation, Kenya
