Tragedy Strikes Nyeri Highway: 15 Dead After Lorry Rams Matatu
News Updated: 28 March 2026 22:00 EAT
At least 15 people have died in a road accident on the Nyeri–Nyahururu highway near Dedan Kimathi University in Nyeri County. The crash occurred on Saturday evening, 28 March 2026, when a lorry rammed into a 14-seater matatu carrying passengers.
Police and eyewitnesses said the lorry, reportedly loaded with logs, swerved to avoid cyclists on the busy highway before colliding with the matatu. The impact was severe, leaving several passengers trapped in the wreckage.
Authorities confirmed that 10 adult males, five females, and a child were killed on the spot. Several other passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
Nyeri County government rescue teams and the Disaster Risk Management Directorate were deployed to the scene immediately. They worked alongside police to free trapped passengers and transport the injured to medical facilities.
The accident caused major traffic disruption along the highway, which was only partially cleared after several hours of recovery and cleanup operations. Motorists were advised to exercise caution and follow alternative routes where possible.
Eyewitnesses described the stretch of road near Dedan Kimathi University as narrow and heavily trafficked, citing frequent road accidents in the area due to reckless driving and poor road conditions.
Investigations into the cause of the crash have been launched, with police gathering statements from survivors and witnesses. Authorities are also examining whether vehicle speed, overloading, or mechanical failure contributed to the collision.
The injured were admitted to Nyeri County Referral Hospital and other nearby facilities. Hospital officials reported that most of the survivors were in critical condition, with some requiring surgery for severe injuries.
This tragedy has once again raised concerns over road safety in Kenya, particularly on highways connecting major towns and educational institutions. Public campaigns and stricter enforcement of traffic laws have been urged to prevent future accidents.
Police have promised to release an official report on the accident, including a detailed casualty list, once investigations are complete. Meanwhile, rescue and recovery operations continue at the scene to ensure all victims are accounted for.
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FELIX MAKONA
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