8 Killed On The Spot After Matatu Crashes Into Fuel Tanker

Eight people have been killed and two others seriously injured following a road accident at Ngengu area along Homa Bay-Kendu Bay road involving a matatu and a fuel trailer.

Reports indicated that the Monday, September 26 accident happened after the two vehicles collided head on.

The PSV was coming from Homa Bay to Kisumu with the tanker that was transporting fuel to Isbania in Migori county was travelling in the other direction.

It was not immediately clear how the accident occurred. Homa Bay County Police Commander Samson Ole Kiine, while confirming the incident, said investigations will establish how the crash occurred.

Scene after a matatu collided head on with a fuel trailer on September 26, 2022. /VIRALTEAKE

However, witnesses detailed that the PSV was speeding as though it was in a race with another vehicle.

The eight died on the spot. The two that were seriously injured were rushed to Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral hospital

Police had a difficult time controlling crowds that had gathered at the scene to watch as the bodies were being taken out of the wreck.

The officers also kept the crowd from going close to the fuel tanker which was full of flammable liquid.

The trailer driver, whilst giving his side of the story, detailed that the matatu which was overtaking rammed into him in fear of colliding head-on with an oncoming vehicle before it veered off the road.

Homa Bay County Governor Gladys Wanga sent a message of condolence to the bereaved families and wished the casualties a quick recovery.

"I am deeply shocked and saddened at the loss of nine precious lives and the injuries to more in the unfortunate incident. I send my deepest and heartfelt condolences to those who have lost friends and loved ones. 

"During this time of grief, I pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured," Wanga stated.

Back in six people died and eight others seriously injured after a matatu they were travelling in collided with a car in a road accident at Kwa Majini bridge on the Thika-Garissa highway in Machakos County.

The deceased were burnt beyond recognition after a gas cylinder that was in the matatu burst into flames following the collision.

A report by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) revealed that speeding, lane indiscipline, driving under the influence, and distracted driving were among the leading causes of road accidents.

According to outgoing Government Spokesperson Cyrus Oguna, 4,579 Kenyans lost their lives in road accidents in 2021.

Wreckage of the matatu involved in the accident at Kwa Majini bridge on the Thika-Garissa highway in Machakos County on July 15, 2022. /CITIZEN DIGITAL