13 killed, four critically injured as matatu and trailer collide in Voi

Scene of the accident at Ndii, near Voi town along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, where 13 people died and four others were critically injured after a matatu they were travelling in collided head-on with a truck. [Renson Mnyamwezi, Standard]

At least 13 people died and scores of others injured when a matatu they were collided head-on with a trailer along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway near Voi town on Thursday.

The accident that occurred at Ndii involved a Genesis Shuttle that was travelling from Nairobi to Mombasa. Ndii is regarded as a black spot.

Voi sub-county police commander Benastine Shari said the 13 died on the spot, while four others were critically injured.

"The driver of matatu was speeding. The accident happened as he tried to overtake another vehicle. The matatu collided head-on with an oncoming truck belonging to Alberam Transporters," said Shari, adding: "Those who died were all passengers in the Nissan matatu."

He said the injured were taken to Moi Voi Referral Hospital in Voi town, adding that they have already launched investigations into the accident.

"As I am talking to you, 13 people have been confirmed dead. We are still removing bodies trapped from the wreckage," Shari told The Standard.

A witness, Mngoda Mjomba, said the shuttle may have had excess passengers at the time of the accident.

"Other motorists told us that the road was clear and there was no overtaking. The two vehicles collided head-on and it appeared that the shuttle driver was tired," he said.