5 people killed in Londiani road accident after matatu rams into trailer
Five people have lost their lives in a gruesome road accident that occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning in Londiani area along the Molo-Kericho road.
The deceased, four men and a child, were travelling in a 14-seater matatu that collided head-on with a trailer at the notorious accident black spot at around 3:30am.
“10 people were evacuated to Molo and Londiani sub-county hospitals. Sadly, 5 people (4 men and 1 child) lost their lives,” the Kenya Red Cross said in a statement.
The cause of the accident is yet to be established, but the area is known for poor visibility and speeding drivers. The Kenya Red Cross has urged motorists to exercise caution when driving in the area.
The wreckage of the matatu and trailer were towed to Mau Summit Police Station.
Kuresoi North sub-county police commander Judah Gathenge said the cause of the accident had not been established and police had begun investigations.
Also read: Kenyan reportedly crashed by his car in US laid to rest in Nandi
“Both vehicles were travelling from Kericho to Nakuru before the matatu driver hit the trailer from behind, causing it to roll several times. We could not immediately ascertain whether the matatu driver was speeding or overtaking when the accident occurred but we have launched investigations,” Mr Gathenge said.
The police boss called on motorists to be more vigilant, especially when driving at night.
“We urge motorists to be cautious especially now that we are approaching the festive season. They should also avoid carrying excess passengers, speeding and overtaking where the road is not clear,” Mr Gathenge said.
According to a recent report by the National Transport Safety Authority (NTSA), careless driving was cited as the leading cause of road accidents on our roads.
NTSA data shows that in 2022, 4 690 people will die in road crashes and nearly 10 000 people will be injured.
The report revealed that drivers who drink and drive are more likely to cause an accident due to a lack of concentration.
The incident comes after 10 people were killed in a fatal crash near Sobea trading centre on the Nakuru-Eldoret highway last month.
The bodies of the victims were taken to Molo Sub County mortuary.
Also read: Rest with the angels: Kikuyu comedian Mwalimu Stano passes on