Several Feared Dead After Lorry Carrying Hawkers Plunges Into River

Several people are feared dead after a lorry carrying hawkers lost control and plunged into a river in Migori County. 

The tragic accident occurred on Wednesday, October 7 night, at the Osiri bridge along the Kuja River.  

Several others were injured and were rushed to the St. Joseph Mission Hospital in Migori for treatment. 

In a statement on Thursday, October 7, Uriri Member of Parliament Mark Nyamita said he was deeply saddened by the accident. 

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident reported last night at Osiri Bridge along River Migori/Kuja, involving a lorry carrying hawkers and pedestrians,” said Nyamita. 

The ODM MP extended his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the accident and wished the injured a quick recovery. 

“My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who have lost their loved ones. To those currently receiving treatment in hospital, I wish you strength and a speedy recovery. 

“May God comfort the bereaved families, grant healing to the injured, and give strength to everyone affected by this tragedy,” he stated. 

Further Nyamita called on the government to expedite the construction of Osiri Bridge to safeguard lives and improve movement of residents. 

“I therefore urge the relevant government authorities to expedite the construction process and ensure that the necessary works are completed to safeguard lives and ease movement for the people who rely on this route,” he added. 

The accident comes days after 17 people lost their lives in a gruesome accident , at Salama along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway.

Makueni County Commissioner Abdullahi Khalif confirmed the fatalities and added that several others were injured.

Khalif stated that the accident occurred when a lorry driver lost control after a reported brake failure and rammed into five vehicles, including a 14-seater van. 

The fatalities include the lorry driver, three passengers in the truck, and several occupants of the van, who were headed to a prayer service,

Survivors were ferried to the Sultan Hamud Sub-county Hospital. Medical superintendent Dr Stephen Mwangangi confirmed that six survivors had been treated and discharged.