KISII, Kenya – A speeding truck lost control and rammed into a crowded market at Daraja Mbili in Kisii Count, killing several people and injuring dozens in a horrific accident that has left the town in shock.
Details of the Accident
The incident occurred at approximately 8:30 a.m. along the busy Kisii-Daraja Mbili road near Falcon area. Eyewitnesses reported that the truck, which was heading toward the market, experienced brake failure before veering off the road and crashing into pedestrians, traders, and boda boda riders.
The impact was devastating—flattening roadside stalls, crushing motorcycles, and trapping victims under the wreckage. Screams filled the air as bystanders rushed to pull survivors from the debris.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
While authorities have not yet released an official death toll, preliminary reports indicate that at least 10 people were killed, with many more seriously injured.
Emergency teams, including police, Kenya Red Cross, and medical personnel from Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, responded swiftly. Ambulances ferried the injured to nearby hospitals, where medical staff worked to stabilize critical cases.
Kisii County Commander Charles Kasses confirmed that rescue operations were ongoing, with fears that the death toll could rise as some victims remained trapped.
Eyewitness Accounts
Traders and boda boda operators described scenes of chaos as the truck barreled toward them without warning.
“I heard a loud screech, then the truck came crashing into the market. People were running, but some couldn’t escape in time,” said John Nyabuto, a survivor.
Another witness, Mary Kemunto, a vegetable vendor, said: “It happened so fast. One moment we were selling, the next, people were screaming and lying on the ground.”
Possible Cause of the Crash
Preliminary investigations suggest brake failure as the likely cause. Traffic police have impounded the truck and detained the driver for questioning.
Authority visited the scene and called for stricter enforcement of road safety measures.
“This is a tragic and avoidable incident. We urge the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to conduct thorough inspections of heavy vehicles to prevent such accidents,”
History of Road Accidents in Kisii
This tragedy adds to a growing list of fatal crashes in the region, where narrow roads, speeding vehicles, and poor enforcement of traffic laws remain major concerns.
In 2022, a bus accident near Suneka claimed 15 lives, sparking calls for better road infrastructure and stricter traffic regulations.
Government Response
Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen expressed condolences and pledged to investigate the crash.
“We will work with county governments to identify and repair accident-prone roads,” he said.
Meanwhile, local leaders, including Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, urged the government to install speed bumps and improve road signage in high-risk areas.
Conclusion
The Daraja Mbili tragedy has left families grieving and reignited calls for urgent road safety reforms. As authorities continue their investigations, the focus remains on preventing future accidents through stricter regulations and better infrastructure.
Key Points:
- Multiple fatalities after a truck lost control at Daraja Mbili market, Kisii.
- Brake failure suspected; driver in police custody.
- Rescue operations ongoing; hospitals attending to the injured.
- Calls for improved road safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.
