At least 48 people were killed when a truck lost control and ploughed into other vehicles and pedestrians at a busy junction in western Kenya. The accident occurred between the towns of Kericho and Nakuru. Local police commander Geoffrey Mayek confirmed the death toll and said that one or two people might still be trapped under the truck. Another 30 people were seriously injured and rushed to hospitals, with the possibility of the toll increasing.

According to Mayek, a truck heading towards Kericho lost control and crashed into matatus that were packed at a bus stop. The truck ran over the matatus, injuring passengers and pedestrians. Local media reported that heavy rains were hindering rescue operations.

Collins Kipkoech, a senior doctor at Kericho County Hospital, stated that his facility had received 45 bodies so far, while more victims were taken to other hospitals. Images posted by local television stations showcased the mangled wrecks of several vehicles at the Londiani junction.

Witnesses reported that the truck was on high speed and tried to avoid other vehicles before crashing into the market. One witness, Maureen Jepkoech, said that she saw the accident unfold and ran to safety. She described the scene as horrifying, with bodies and blood everywhere.

Joel Rotich, another witness, said that the accident happened so quickly that many people had no time to escape. He mentioned the confusion and chaos as people screamed and ran after the accident. It took some time before people gathered the courage to help those who were injured.

The number of road fatalities in Kenya has been on the rise in recent years, as per government statistics. Kericho governor Erick Mutai expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and stated that ambulances were mobilized and all health facilities were on standby.