Government Pathologist Confirms Fatal Injuries in Chopper Crash
News Updated: 03 March 2026 20:48 EAT
Parts of helicopter that killed MP Ngeno, five others to be sent overseas
Government pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor has confirmed that all six victims of the helicopter crash in Mosop, Nandi County died from catastrophic injuries to the chest, head, and spine, with extensive burns, highlighting the severity of the accident that claimed the lives of Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and five others.
The helicopter, an Airbus / Eurocopter AS350 registered 5Y‑DSB, went down on the afternoon of February 28, 2026, in a hilly area near Chepkiep Forest, bursting into flames on impact.
Preliminary reports suggest the aircraft, which had made an emergency landing moments earlier amid deteriorating weather, struck trees as it attempted to resume flight in dense mist and heavy rain, reducing visibility for the pilot.
All six people on board, including MP Ng’eno, were killed in the crash. Identified victims include Ng’eno, pilot George Were, Kenya Forest Service officer Amos Kipngetich Rotich, photographer Nick Kosgey, protocol officer Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono, and teacher Robert Kipkoech Keter.
The remains were severely burnt and mangled, making immediate identification impossible, officials at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) said. Teams are working to prepare the bodies for formal identification procedures.
In a coordinated effort to ensure accurate identification, the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has begun DNA sampling from relatives to match with genetic material recovered from the crash site, as forensic experts continue their work.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) has taken over the official inquiry, with forensic teams retrieving flight instruments, including the recorder, to piece together the final moments of the flight. A preliminary report is expected within 30 days.
The tragedy has prompted national mourning, with President William Ruto and political leaders praising Ng’eno’s service and extending condolences to the families. Parliamentary leaders have also convened to coordinate funeral arrangements for the late MP, whose burial is scheduled for March 6.
Local residents and aviation observers have expressed grief over the loss and urged adherence to safety protocols, especially given the adverse weather conditions reported at the time of the crash.
Authorities continue to caution against speculation as the investigation progresses, stressing that only detailed analysis by aviation and forensic specialists will determine the definitive cause of the crash.
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FELIX MAKONA
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