Written By Lisa Murimi
A suspected hijacking attempt turned fatal on the Kerugoya-Kutus road in Kirinyaga County, leaving one person dead and seven others severely injured.
According to Kerugoya Disaster Response Officer John Kiama, the incident began with frantic screams near the area’s mortuary, initially mistaken for mourners.
Upon investigation, it emerged that the screams were from a vehicle whose occupants were reportedly being hijacked.
“One woman jumped out of the vehicle near Kerugoya Boys, shouting for help,” Kiama recounted.
The vehicle sped off before stopping approximately 7 kilometers away, where one occupant was found dead.
Eyewitness James Mugo described the chaotic scene as the vehicle descended rapidly, with occupants being ejected in the process.
The injured victims were rushed to Kerugoya Hospital for treatment.
This incident adds to Kenya’s concerning road safety record.
In 2024, the Ministry of Transport launched the National Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2028, seeking to address the rising number of road accidents.
Road accidents reportedly cost the Kenyan economy an estimated Ksh 450 billion annually, devastating families and communities.
Authorities are urging vigilance and cooperation to curb such tragedies, which are exacerbated by criminal activities and negligence.
