At least six people from the same extended family died early Sunday morning after a matatu they were travelling in lost control and plunged into the Kiama River in Murang’a County.
According to police, the victims hailed from Ndia Village in Kariara Ward, Gatanga Constituency. The tragic crash occurred at Wacengu Bridge on the River Kiama, claiming the lives of a husband, wife, and four relatives.
Family Was Returning From Dowry Ceremony
Authorities said the family was returning home from a dowry ceremony in the Nazareth area of Kiambu County when the accident occurred around dawn.
Six other passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to Kirwara Hospital and Murang’a Level 5 Hospital for treatment.
“The victims were members of the same extended family returning from a dowry ceremony when the matatu lost control and plunged into the river,” police said in a statement.
Police Launch Investigation
Murang’a County police have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that the vehicle may have lost control on a sharp bend before crashing into the river.
The bodies of the victims were moved to a local mortuary as investigations continue.
Police have urged motorists to exercise caution, especially along slippery and curved rural roads that have become increasingly risky during the rainy season.
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