At least 11 people were killed on Friday night following a horrific road accident along the Gilgil–Nakuru highway in Nakuru County.
Police said the fatal crash occurred on April 3, 2026, at around 9:30 p.m. in the Kariandusi area.
It happened near Lake Oil Bridge on the Nairobi–Nakuru highway after a matatu rammed into a stalled trailer
Police said the accident involved a Toyota Hiace matatu belonging to Likana Sacco, and a Mercedes Actros trailer which had stalled on the road after a mechanical issue.
It’s not clear if the driver of the lorry took measures to warn oncoming vehicles.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the matatu, which was heading towards Nakuru, rammed into the rear of the stationary trailer.
The impact of the collision was devastating, leaving the matatu driver dead on the spot alongside 10 passengers, bringing the death toll to 11, police said.
Five other passengers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Gilgil Sub-County Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The bodies of the deceased moved to Gilgil Sub-County Hospital mortuary pending identification and postmortem examinations.
The wreckage of both vehicles was towed to Gilgil Police Station for inspection as investigations into the cause of the accident continue.
The incident increased to 20, the number of people killed in separate accidents on Friday night alone. They included 16 passengers and four riders, police said.
At least 27 others were injured in the accidents reported.
Meanwhile, 13 people died in separate road accidents on Thursday night.
Police said the victims included six pedestrians, three riders, two drivers, a pillion passenger and a pedal cyclist.
The accidents left at least 24 people with serious injuries, police said.
Ten others died on Friday alone and included four pedestrians, two drivers, passengers and a rider.
Officials say reckless overtaking, speeding, and drunk driving remain among the leading causes of road accidents across the country, continuing to claim lives despite sustained public safety campaigns by National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).
Mechanical failures from poorly maintained vehicles, including worn tyres and faulty brakes, have also been identified as significant contributors to the growing number of crashes. In addition to driver negligence, poor road conditions such as potholes, confusing signage, and inadequate lighting make travel increasingly hazardous.
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