- At least seven people died after a trailer rammed into a matatu near Gilgil
- The accident happened after the trailer lost control and crossed into the opposite lane
- Several passengers were injured and taken to nearby hospitals
- Earlier in January, another crash in Naivasha left nine people dead
- Authorities and emergency teams responded as investigations continue
Kenya’s roads have once again witnessed a deadly accident after a serious crash claimed the lives of at least seven people in Kikopey, near Gilgil.
The incident happened on Monday afternoon, January 19, involving a trailer and a 14-seater matatu that was travelling in the opposite direction.
According to early reports, the trailer lost control while on the highway before veering off its lane.
Moments later, it collided head-on with the matatu, causing a powerful impact that pushed the public service vehicle off the road.
Due to the size and speed of the lorry, the matatu stood no chance.
After the collision, the trailer came to a halt on top of the matatu, leaving it badly wrecked.
Images and videos shared from the scene showed the vehicle completely crushed at the roadside, making it hard to recognize.
The level of damage pointed to the force involved in the crash.
Apart from those who lost their lives, several passengers survived with injuries.
Emergency responders moved the injured to nearby health facilities, where they received treatment.
Authorities have since launched investigations to establish the exact cause of the accident.
The Gilgil tragedy comes just days after another deadly accident was reported in Naivasha.
Earlier this month, nine people died following a collision at the Karai area along the busy Nairobi–Nakuru highway.
The Naivasha crash occurred in the early hours of Monday, January 5, at around 2 am.
A Greenline bus collided with a 14-seater matatu operated by Nanyuki Cabs Sacco, leading to multiple fatalities.
Initial findings revealed that two of the victims were minors.
Photos from the Karai accident showed severe damage to the matatu, especially at the front and along one side.
The bus was also damaged at the front, though not as badly as the smaller vehicle.
The wreckage painted a grim picture of the early morning crash.
In a statement, the Kenya Red Cross confirmed that several passengers were injured during the Naivasha accident.
Those hurt were taken to Naivasha District Hospital for urgent medical attention.
The two accidents, occurring just weeks apart, have renewed concerns over road safety on major highways.
As investigations continue, many Kenyans are once again calling for stricter measures to prevent such deadly crashes.
