At least two people lost their lives on Saturday when a speeding Miraa pickup truck veered off the Kitui-Kibwezi Road and struck two pedestrians near Kyatune Market in Kitui County.
The victims, identified as a pastor and a businessperson, were standing by the roadside at Kwa Toma when the accident occurred.
Eyewitnesses reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle, which was traveling at high speed, before plowing into the unsuspecting pedestrians. The impact was so severe that both victims died instantly, with their bodies hurled several meters from the scene.
Kyambati King’ondu, the area chief, confirmed the fatalities and stated that the victims’ bodies had been moved to the Mutomo Level 4 Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examinations.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident, as concerns grow over the increasing number of fatalities along the Kitui-Kibwezi Road.
Former Cabinet Secretary for EAC, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development Peninah Malonza expressed her condolences via her official X account, mourning the loss of the two individuals.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident this morning at Kwa Toma Market Centre, Kyatune, Mutomo, Kitui County, which claimed the lives of two individuals—a pastor and a businessperson. My heartfelt condolences go out to their families, friends, and the entire community,” she wrote.
Malonza called for greater road safety awareness among Miraa transporters, urging them to adhere to traffic regulations. “Overspeeding is reckless and endangers everyone on the road. Let us commit to responsible driving, respect for speed limits, and the protection of lives to prevent further tragedies,” she added.