A tragic helicopter crash in Chepkiep, Mosop Sub-county in Nandi County has left at least six people feared dead after the aircraft went down and burst into flames on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
According to preliminary reports, the helicopter crashed at approximately 4:45pm before catching fire moments after impact.
Witnesses at the scene reported a loud explosion as the aircraft hit the ground, with residents rushing to assist in rescue efforts amid the flames.
Authorities have since begun piecing together the identities of those on board, as recovery operations continue.
Among the items recovered at the crash site was a mobile phone and SIM card believed to belong to Johanna Ng’eno, the Member of Parliament for Emurwa Dikirr. Devices linked to Amos Kipngetich Rotich, an officer with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), were also found among the debris.
The identities of the remaining three victims have not yet been officially confirmed.
In a further development, it has now been confirmed that Nick Koskei, who served as the official photographer to Hon. Ng’eno, was among those who lost their lives in the crash.
“It’s with deep sorrow that we do confirm the demise of Nick Koskei…the official photographer to Hon. Ng’eno the MP. He lost his life as one of the passengers on the chopper that crashed in the early evening today in Nandi,” a statement read.
Nick served with distinction as SOMU Editor in 2022/2023, leading as one of the best Student Magazines.
He also served as editor in chief at Maseno Radio.
He graduated from Maseno University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in communication and media technology with IT.
The statement further indicated that the helicopter had initially attempted an emergency landing due to bad weather before resuming its journey.
“The chopper had made an emergency landing because of bad weather, before proceeding with the journey only to crash 300m from where it landed,” it added.
Koskei was remembered for his contributions as a student leader, having served as an editor under the Maseno University Students Organisation (SOMU) leadership in 2022/2023 and Maseno Radio during his time as university student.
“Nick served with diligence during the SOMU leadership…as an editor leading one of the best student magazines,” the statement noted, describing him as a person defined by hard work and integrity.
Earlier reports indicated that the helicopter, registration number 5Y-DSB, is owned by a company based at Wilson Airport in Nairobi.
Flight tracking data shows that the aircraft had departed Nairobi earlier that day, although details of its full flight path remain unclear.
The aircraft is identified as an Airbus Helicopters H125, a model commonly used for both private and government operations.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the cause of the crash, with investigations expected to focus on weather conditions and technical factors surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, the tragic loss has sent shockwaves across the region, as families await confirmation of the identities of all those who were on board.
