Police in Gilgil have confirmed seven deaths following a multiple-vehicle collision on the Naivasha-Nakuru highway at Kikopey on Monday, January 19. The incident occurred when the driver of a heavy trailer heading toward Nakuru lost control of the vehicle. It veered across the road and struck at least two matatus traveling in the opposite direction.
According to Gilgil Sub-County Police Commander Wilstone Mwakio, five victims died at the scene. Two more succumbed later at St. Mary’s Hospital while receiving treatment for their injuries. Several others were injured, though the exact numbers of those hurt were not immediately released. Eyewitnesses described the moment the trailer suddenly swerved, slamming into the public service vehicles and causing extensive damage to their bodies.
The wreckage showed a mangled trailer cab resting against a roadside container, with debris from the matatus scattered nearby. Yellow jerrycans and metal frames littered the accident site, alongside personal belongings and twisted vehicle panels. Rescue efforts involved local residents and emergency services working to free trapped passengers from the crumpled matatus.
The accident adds to ongoing concerns about road safety on this corridor. Authorities routinely urge drivers to maintain vehicles and adhere to traffic rules, but incidents persist amid high volumes of commercial transport. Bodies of the deceased were taken to a local mortuary for postmortem examinations. Police have impounded the trailer for further examination.
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