Tragedy struck in Runda, Nairobi, when a perimeter wall collapsed, killing two painters and critically injuring two others. The incident occurred on December 17, as the group worked on painting and decorating a wall at a private residence.
Rain Leads to Tragedy
According to witnesses, the group had been hired by a homeowner to enhance the property’s perimeter wall. While they worked, heavy rainfall began, prompting them to seek shelter in a nearby kiosk. Moments later, the wall gave way, trapping the painters beneath the debris and iron sheets of the kiosk.
The victims were rescued and rushed to a Kiambu hospital, but two of them were pronounced dead on arrival. The other two remain hospitalized in critical condition.
Investigations Underway
Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei confirmed that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Gigiri is leading a probe into the tragedy. Officers have already recorded statements, and the bodies of the deceased have been moved to Kiambu County Referral Hospital for postmortem examinations.
Authorities are also working to locate the property owner to determine whether the wall was constructed to the required safety standards.
A Common Concern
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety at construction sites in Kenya, where similar accidents often occur due to substandard materials or unsafe practices. Investigators are expected to release more details as the probe continues.
