At least eight people were killed when a matatu they were traveling in was involved in a road accident along the Matuu–Mwingi road in Masinga, Machakos County.
The accident occurred on Tuesday June 3 at around 4pm in the Mwatungo area of Masinga sub-county and involved a 14-seater matatu that was traveling from Matuu towards Mwingi.
Police said four died on the spot while the rest died in the hospital.
Survivors said the matatu had a tyre burst, veered off the road and rolled.
As a result, the driver and three passengers died on the spot.
Four other passengers died while undergoing treatment at Matuu hospital and Kithyoko hospital, respectively, while ten passengers suffered serious injuries.
The mangled wreckage of the matatu was towed to Nguutani Police Station pending inspection, as police launched investigations into the crash.
The tragedy comes just two days after another serious road accident in Athi River, Machakos County, where several people were injured when a public service vehicle crashed near the Crystal Mall at Stage 39 Bridge.
Fatal accidents have been on the rise amid campaigns to address the menace.
More than 4000 people are killed annually in accidents in the country. Thousands of others are left with injuries that leave a trail of negative impact on families.
Statistics provided by police show some 4,282 people had been killed in accidents between January and November 2024 as compared to 3,901 that were reported in the same period in 2023.
A total of 21,620 accidents were reported between January and November 2024 as compared to 20,191 of 2023 during the same period.
The National Transport and Safety Authority says the leading causes of fatal crashes include hit-and-run, tyre bursts, and vehicles and motorcycles losing control.
Also, overtaking improperly and failing to keep the proper lane, resulting in head-on collisions, are mentioned as causes.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
