Two people die, 15 admitted to hospital following Kakamega accident

Kakamega, Kenya: Two people have died while 15 others are fighting for their lives at Kakamega County Referral Hospital following an accident.

The 7pm accident took place at Ikonyero area along Kakamega-Mumias road when a Nissan matatu and Eldoret Express bus were involved in an ahead-on collision.

The driver of the 14-seater-matatu died on spot while the other passenger died on arrival at the hospital.

Western region police commander Moses Ombati confirmed the accident and attributed to negligence by the driver of the bus.

He warned drivers against ignoring road signs saying they will face consequences.

“Two people died and scores injured. The casualties were rushed to hospital. The driver of the bus was speeding and due to his negligence he caused the accident. How can he overtake when he is clearly seeing other vehicles in front of him?” posed Ombati.

He asked road users to be careful especially during this Easter holiday.

“We will not tolerate careless driving on our roads. Every person should be careful and those who will violate the laws will be held accountable,” he said.

Members of the public who witnessed the accident said the bus which was heading to Kakamega town from Mumias was trying to overtake a tuktuk causing the accident.

Peninah Mukabane, the county executive member in charge of Health Services said 17 casualties were received at the County Referral Hospital in critical conditions but currently they are in stable condition.

She said two died on arrival at the hospital as the other 15 are fighting for the lives but in stable conditions.

“We have received 17 casualties at the hospital. We have lost two on arrival the driver of the matatu and one other. The other 15 have been attended to at the x-ray and ultrasound done. Two were rushed in the theatre and others admitted but in stable condition,” said Ms Mukabane.

Governor Wycliffe Oparanya regretted the accident but lauded medics, police officers and members of the public for quick response to save lives.

He condoled with the bereaved families saying it is unfortunate and great loss.

“I have received the shocking news and I wish to convey my condolences to the families of the driver and the other passenger who died in the accident. I thank those who responded quickly to participate in the rescue mission to save lives,” said Oparanya.