At least 11 people have been confirmed dead following a horrific road accident along the Gilgil–Nakuru Highway in Nakuru County on the night of April 3, 2026. The fatal crash occurred at around 9:30 p.m. in the Kariandusi area, a stretch long regarded as a dangerous blackspot.
According to police reports, the accident involved a passenger matatu that was heading toward Nakuru and a trailer that had reportedly stalled on the road. The matatu is said to have rammed into the stationary truck, resulting in a devastating impact that left several occupants dead on the spot.
Authorities indicated that at least 11 people lost their lives in the crash, although the number could rise as rescue and recovery operations continue. Emergency responders rushed to the scene shortly after the incident to assist victims and clear the wreckage.
Preliminary findings suggest that the trailer had broken down and may not have had adequate warning signs to alert approaching motorists. Investigators are now focusing on whether proper safety measures were in place at the time of the incident.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with the mangled remains of the matatu trapping passengers inside. Rescue teams, including police and local volunteers, worked through the night to retrieve bodies and assist any survivors.
One survivor was reportedly pulled from the wreckage and rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. However, details about the number of injured passengers remain unclear as authorities continue to assess the situation.
The Kariandusi stretch near Gilgil is widely known for frequent accidents, often attributed to poor visibility, sharp bends, and the heavy presence of commercial trucks along the route. The latest tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers motorists face on this busy highway.
The Kenya Police Service has launched investigations into the incident to determine the exact cause of the crash and establish liability. Officers are expected to examine the condition of both vehicles and assess compliance with road safety regulations.
Road safety experts have renewed calls for urgent intervention along the Nairobi–Nakuru corridor, urging the government to improve infrastructure, enhance lighting, and enforce stricter regulations for heavy commercial vehicles.
The deadly crash adds to the growing number of road accidents reported across the country, raising fresh concerns over transport safety. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, especially when driving at night, as investigations into the Kariandusi tragedy continue.
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FELIX MAKONA
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