Current:Home > reviewsAt least 51 people killed in road accident in western Kenya, 32 injured, police and Red Cross say -EquityExchange
At least 51 people killed in road accident in western Kenya, 32 injured, police and Red Cross say
View
Date:2025-04-24 16:50:49
A truck rammed into several other vehicles and market traders in western Kenya, killing at least 51 people, police said.
The Friday evening accident occurred at a location known for vehicle crashes near the Rift Valley town of Londiani, which is about 200 kilometers (125 miles) northwest of the capital, Nairobi.
Officers at the scene counted 51 bodies, but more people were believed to be trapped in the wreckage, Rift Valley police commander Tom Odera told The Associated Press.
The Kenya Red Cross Society said on Saturday 32 people were injured and hospitalized, and asked Kenyans to donate blood. It also said heavy rainfall interrupted rescue efforts and people were still trapped in wrecked vehicles.
Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen visited the scene on Saturday morning and said the government would relocate markets away from the highways to prevent such future accidents.
President William Ruto tweeted a condolence message to bereaved families describing the accident as "distressing" and urging motorists to be "extra cautious."
Witnesses quoted by local media said the truck veered off the major highway and hit several vehicles before hitting pedestrians and traders. Witnesses shared photos of the vehicle wreckages mangled beyond recognition.
Police had said on Friday rescue operations would continue into the night.
The Kenyan Red Cross Society said they have set up stations at hospitals where people can report loved ones still missing and are providing psychological support to those affected.
- In:
- Kenya
veryGood! (6)
Related
- Alex Murdaugh’s murder appeal cites biased clerk and prejudicial evidence
- Abortions in US rose slightly after post-Roe restrictions were put in place, new study finds
- Bud Light becomes the official beer of UFC as Anheuser-Busch looks to recoup revenue drop
- Billions for life-saving AIDS program need to continue, George W. Bush Institute tells Congress
- Travis Hunter, the 2
- China and the U.S. appear to restart military talks despite disputes over Taiwan and South China Sea
- Trump's New York civil and criminal cases collide with Michael Cohen on the stand
- Michigan State investigation finds Mel Tucker sexually harassed rape survivor
- Macy's says employee who allegedly hid $150 million in expenses had no major 'impact'
- Many Israelis are furious at their government’s chaotic recovery efforts after Hamas attack
Ranking
- Federal hiring is about to get the Trump treatment
- Medical exceptions to abortion bans often exclude mental health conditions
- Salmonella outbreak in 22 states tied to recalled Gills Onions products
- Ex-NBA star Dwight Howard denies sexual assault allegation, calls activity 'consensual'
- Where will Elmo go? HBO moves away from 'Sesame Street'
- Olivia Rodrigo worries she's a 'bad influence' on Jimmy Kimmel's kids as they sing her songs
- Nigeria’s Supreme Court refuses to void president’s election and dismisses opposition challenges
- 'I could have died there': Teen saves elderly neighbor using 'Stop The Bleed' training
Recommendation
Meta releases AI model to enhance Metaverse experience
Former Mississippi corrections officers get years in prison for beating prisoner
US Mint announces five women completing fourth round of Quarters Program in 2025
Apple's iOS 17.1 update includes new features for AirDrop, StandBy and Apple Music
Which apps offer encrypted messaging? How to switch and what to know after feds’ warning
2023 MLS Cup Playoffs: Live stream, new format, game times and dates, odds, how to watch
Averted disaster on Horizon Air flight renews scrutiny on mental health of those in the cockpit
Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' Dorit Kemsley Breaks Silence on PK Divorce Rumors