Tragedy struck on the evening of Friday, July 4, after a horrific road accident at Mlima Kiu near Salama Town on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway claimed the lives of three people, including a 10-year-old child, and left several others critically injured.
HIGH-SPEED COLLISION INVOLVING TRUCK AND PASSENGER VEHICLES
According to eyewitness reports, the deadly crash occurred when a speeding truck lost control while descending the notoriously steep Mlima Kiu section. The truck veered into the opposite lane, colliding head-on with a personal car before crashing into two passenger Nissan matatus that were ferrying travelers toward Nairobi.
The violent impact crushed the smaller vehicles, scattering debris and twisted wreckage across both sides of the highway. The scene was described as chaotic and heartbreaking, with shattered glass, mangled metal, and personal belongings strewn along the road.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND CASUALTY UPDATE
Emergency responders, including traffic police, Good Samaritans, and paramedics, arrived swiftly at the scene to help rescue survivors and retrieve the bodies of the deceased.
At least three fatalities were confirmed on the spot—two adults and one child. Several injured passengers were evacuated and rushed to Sultan Hamud Hospital, where they are currently receiving emergency treatment.
Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident, but initial findings point to excessive speed and brake failure as possible contributors.
FAMILIES IN MOURNING AS SAFETY CONCERNS MOUNT
As families of the victims come to terms with their loss, the incident has renewed public concern about road safety along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, a major transport corridor that has seen numerous fatal accidents in recent years—especially on dangerous stretches like Mlima Kiu.
Authorities are once again being urged to enforce strict speed limits, enhance road signage, and ensure regular mechanical inspections for heavy-duty trucks plying the busy route.
