One Killed As Fuel Tanker Bursts Into Flames After Crash On Nairobi Southern Bypass
News Updated: 24 January 2026 16:14 EAT
An oil tanker exploded following a collision with a truck along the Southern Bypass behind Carnivore
At least one person has been confirmed dead following a fiery road accident involving a fuel tanker and another heavy commercial truck along the Southern Bypass in Nairobi. The fatal crash occurred on Saturday, triggering a massive fire that brought traffic to a standstill and raised serious safety concerns.
Police said the collision involved two trucks, one of them a fuel tanker transporting petroleum products. Upon impact, the tanker overturned and caught fire, resulting in a powerful blaze that quickly spread across the roadway and produced thick black smoke visible from several kilometres away.
The victim was identified as one of the drivers involved in the accident. Authorities indicated that the driver succumbed at the scene, while another driver was rescued and rushed to hospital with injuries. His condition was reported to be stable.
Emergency response teams, including police, firefighters, and medical personnel, were swiftly deployed to the scene. Fire crews worked for hours to contain the inferno and prevent further explosions, as fuel spilled onto the road posed an ongoing risk.
The Southern Bypass was temporarily closed in both directions to allow emergency operations and ensure public safety. Motorists were advised to avoid the route and use alternative roads as traffic congestion spilled over to surrounding areas, including Lang’ata Road and Ngong Road.
Witnesses described moments of panic as motorists abandoned their vehicles and fled the scene amid fears of secondary explosions. Authorities cautioned members of the public against approaching accident scenes involving fuel tankers due to the extreme danger posed by flammable substances.
The Kenya National Highways Authority confirmed that cleanup and inspection works were underway before the road could be reopened. Officials said structural assessments would be conducted to ensure the bypass was safe for use after exposure to intense heat.
Police have launched investigations to establish the cause of the crash, focusing on factors such as speed, road conditions, and mechanical failure. No arrests had been made by the time of reporting.
The incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of heavy commercial vehicles on major highways, with authorities renewing calls for strict enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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FELIX MAKONA
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