Tragic Nyeri Road Crash Claims 15 Lives, Dozens Injured

 Fifteen people have died and several others injured following a devastating road accident on Saturday evening near Dedan Kimathi University of Science and Technology in Nyeri County.

The collision involved a public service vehicle (matatu) ferrying passengers to Mweiga and a lorry transporting firewood towards Nyeri town. Central Region Traffic Police boss Elizebeth Vivi reported that the lorry veered off the road while attempting to avoid a boda-boda rider, resulting in a head-on collision with the Nyekita Sacco-registered matatu.

“Four passengers from the matatu died on the spot, while 10 others succumbed to their injuries while undergoing treatment at Nyeri County Referral Hospital. One juvenile was also among the deceased,” Vivi told reporters.

Nyeri County Executive Committee (CEC) for Social Services, Esther Ndung’u, confirmed that of the 15 fatalities, 10 were male and five female, including the boda-boda rider. Seven survivors are receiving treatment, with six admitted at Nyeri County Referral Hospital and one at Mathari Hospital, and all are reported to be responding well to care.

The accident occurred around 5:00 pm on Saturday, and rescue teams were dispatched promptly to retrieve victims trapped in the mangled vehicles. Ndung’u emphasized the coordinated efforts of emergency services in managing the scene and providing medical support.

Reacting to the tragedy, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed his condolences on social media, stating:

“It is a difficult moment for our nation and for the several families tonight following the tragic road crash in Nyeri County… My family and I send our deepest sympathies to the families who have lost their loved ones and wish a quick recovery to the injured.”

Gachagua also urged motorists to exercise caution on the roads and called on authorities to improve road infrastructure and signage. “One life lost is one too many,” he said.

The Nyeri tragedy has once again highlighted concerns about road safety in the region, particularly involving PSVs and heavy vehicles navigating busy county roads. Authorities have pledged to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure accountability while reinforcing road safety measures.

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