On Sunday night, a trailer lost control at Kikopey along the Nakuru-Nairobi Highway, slamming into pedestrians before crashing into a building where a number of people were playing pool.
Five people died instantly. Six other people suffered severe injuries and are currently getting treatment at the Gilgil Sub-County Hospital.
Francis Tumbo, the head of Gilgil sub-county police, confirmed the incident, saying the two pedestrians were hit at approximately 9 p.m. when they were walking along the highway.
The police boss appealed to pedestrians to exercise caution while walking along the road, highlighting a similar accident in which a 16-seater matatu rammed a trailer, killing four men and a child on the spot.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the deceased were moved to the Gilgil sub-county hospital mortuary as investigations into the accident continued.
Gilgil Member of Parliament (MP) Martha Wangari sent out a heartfelt message to the bereaved saying:
“What has happened at Kikopey is heart wrenching. They were all enjoying a beautiful Sunday evening not knowing a dark cloud is about to engulf their space.
“Am deeply saddened and pray for the families involved. May God’s grace be with all of them,” Wangari added.
She called on Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen to address the spot, as it has claimed more lives previously.
“My kikopey people CS Murkomen this section needs attention. Too many lives lost!”
More Kenyans condoled with the victims while echoing MP Wangari’s sentiments to have the hotspot checked.
“My condolences too to affected families,” Abuga Makori wrote.
“Those who were affected by this accident yesterday at kikopey may your heart’s be comforted fully….may those who lost their lives rest in eternal peace ……poleni sana,” Facebook user Samcoo wrote.
“This area has been a death spot especially because of the road obstruction by packed vehicles, single lane traffic and traders whose buildings are too close to a highway,” Captain Njoroge Njeri opined.
