At least ten people were killed on Sunday night following a horrific road accident near Chabera Trading Centre in Rachuonyo East, Homa Bay County.
Police said the crash occurred at around 8:00pm when a Nissan matatu carrying church members collided head-on with a lorry along the Oyugis–Katito road.
According to investigators, the lorry, which was travelling from Oyugis towards Katito, lost control and veered into the matatu’s lane, causing the deadly impact.
The deceased include six women and four men, among them the matatu driver. Six other passengers sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Rachuonyo South Sub-county Hospital in Oyugis for treatment.
Rachuonyo East Sub-county Police Commander Laban Omol confirmed the incident and said the victims were members of a church from Nyamira County. They were returning home after attending a wedding of one of their congregants in Kakamega County.
Police said the lorry driver fled the scene immediately after the crash and is currently being sought by authorities.
“The accident happened after the lorry driver lost control and crossed into the matatu’s lane. We are pursuing the driver who escaped after the collision,” Omol said.
The bodies of the deceased were moved to Rachuonyo South Sub-county Hospital Mortuary, while both vehicles were towed to Othoro Police Station for inspection.
Police have urged motorists to exercise caution, especially during the festive season, to prevent further loss of life on Kenyan roads.
