A family in Ndia village, Gatanga, Murang’a County, has been left heartbroken after losing six relatives in a tragic road accident while returning home from a dowry ceremony in Kiambu County.
What was meant to be a joyful family celebration quickly turned into a nightmare when the vehicle they were travelling in lost control and plunged into the Kiama River.
The 14-seater matatu, which was ferrying the family back home, reportedly veered off the Chomo-Kahunyo Road before falling into the river. The accident occurred at night, making rescue efforts even more difficult.
Driver Shares Painful Details of the Moments Before the Crash
Patrick Kiarie, the driver of the ill-fated matatu, survived the accident and shared a chilling account of what happened in the final moments before the crash.
According to Kiarie, the journey had started smoothly, with everyone in high spirits after attending the successful dowry ceremony. However, things took a tragic turn halfway through the journey.
“Everything was fine when we began the trip, but as we approached a steep section, I realized the brakes had failed,” Kiarie said. “I tried stepping on the brake pedal several times, but the vehicle wouldn’t stop. I prayed to God to spare us.
People inside the matatu started screaming and calling for help. A few seconds later, I heard a loud bang, and the next thing I knew, we were in the river.”
Six Family Members Lose Their Lives
Six passengers died on the spot, including a man, his wife, and their children. Those who survived were rushed to Murang’a Level 5 Hospital for treatment. Peter Mwangi, who lost his father in the crash, spoke with deep sorrow about the pain the family is going through.
“We lost six members of our family instantly, including my dad. Others were badly injured and are now receiving treatment. It’s a loss that has shaken us deeply,” Mwangi said.
Another survivor, Julius Waruingi, also shared his terrifying experience. He said they were just a few kilometres from home when disaster struck.
“The driver told us the brakes had failed, and since it was at night, visibility was poor. He tried to control the vehicle, but it was too late. We went straight into the river,” Waruingi recalled, still shaken by the memory.
Hospital Confirms Six Survivors Under Treatment
At Murang’a Level 5 Hospital, medical personnel worked tirelessly to treat the survivors. Nurse Euphrase Njiru confirmed that six people were admitted with varying degrees of injuries.
“We’ve conducted several scans and X-rays to check the extent of their injuries. Most of them are stable and responding well to treatment, except one patient who sustained serious injuries and may need to remain in hospital for an extended period,” Njiru said.
Residents Demand Road Repairs and Safety Measures
Residents of Gatanga expressed deep concern over the poor state of the Chomo-Kahunyo Road, which they said has caused multiple accidents in the past.
They urged the government and county officials to repair the road and improve safety measures to prevent more tragedies.
“This road has been a death trap for years. It’s time the authorities fixed it before more lives are lost,” said one resident.
Kenyans Mourn and Share Condolences Online
The heartbreaking news sparked an emotional reaction across social media, with many Kenyans sending messages of comfort and calling for better road safety.
Some users also advised families to avoid travelling together in one vehicle to reduce the risk of losing multiple loved ones at once.
Patrick Brown wrote, “People still haven’t learned from the Kandara accident. Families shouldn’t travel together. Let’s travel separately and meet at the destination.”
Policap Teddy Pizz added, “Lord, have mercy. May God comfort that family and give them strength during this painful moment.”
Ezzy Wambo also commented, “My deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We rebuke these road accidents in the mighty name of Jesus.”
Similar Accident in Kiambu
In a separate incident previously reported by TUKO.co.ke, a lorry carrying alcohol lost control and crashed into a hardware shop in Mutarakwa, Kiambu County, on October 25. The crash occurred around 10 a.m. and caused significant damage to property.
Eyewitness James Njogu said the lorry appeared to have lost its brakes before it veered off the road and rammed into the shop. Fortunately, there were no reports of fatalities in that incident.
The Murang’a tragedy has once again raised questions about road safety, vehicle maintenance, and the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to protect Kenyan lives.
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