At least five people are feared dead after a horrific road accident at Kikopey area in Gilgil along the busy Nakuru–Nairobi Highway.
According to police and eyewitness accounts, the crash involved a Great Rift Sacco 14-seater matatu and a heavy commercial trailer. Preliminary reports indicate that the trailer may have suffered brake failure, causing the driver to lose control before ramming into the matatu.
The impact of the collision was devastating, leaving the matatu badly mangled and debris scattered across the highway. Eyewitnesses at the scene described moments of panic as passengers and motorists rushed to help, with some victims trapped inside the wreckage. Screams and confusion filled the area as good Samaritans attempted to rescue survivors before emergency teams arrived.
Several passengers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals in Gilgil and Naivasha for urgent medical attention. However, authorities cautioned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations and assessments continue.
Police officers from Gilgil Sub-County, traffic officials, and emergency responders were quickly deployed to the scene to manage the situation, secure the area, and regulate traffic, which was heavily disrupted for several hours. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes as the wreckage was cleared from the highway.
Investigations into the exact cause of the accident are ongoing, with police focusing on the mechanical condition of the trailer and adherence to traffic regulations. Authorities have once again urged drivers, especially operators of heavy commercial vehicles and public service transport, to ensure proper vehicle maintenance and exercise caution on major highways to prevent similar tragedies.