Several learners are feared dead following a tragic incident at the Kapsabet School for the Deaf on Thursday, March 12, after a number of students reportedly fell into a septic tank within the school compound.
According to preliminary reports, the learners had gathered near the school fence to watch the motorcade of President William Ruto as it passed through the area. The institution is located near Kapsabet Girls’ High School, where the Head of State was expected to attend an official function.
Witnesses indicated that several students unknowingly stepped onto what appeared to be a covered sewage pit. The structure reportedly gave way due to the weight, causing multiple learners to fall into the septic tank. The incident triggered panic among students and staff as those nearby quickly raised the alarm.
Residents from the surrounding community responded swiftly and began rescue efforts before police and emergency services arrived. Locals worked together to pull some of the trapped learners from the pit as authorities mobilized additional support teams to manage the situation.
Those rescued from the scene were rushed to the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital for urgent medical attention.
At the time of publication, some reports suggested that at least 11 students may have died, although the figure had not been independently confirmed by authorities.
Emergency response teams remained at the scene conducting search and rescue operations as investigations into the cause of the incident began. Authorities are expected to assess safety conditions at the school and determine the circumstances that led to the collapse of the septic structure.