Three people were killed on the spot and three others seriously injured after a van and a tipper lorry collided along the Kericho-Ainamoi-Thesalia Road on Saturday morning. The crash occurred at Taturo Stream, near Kipchimchim Trading Centre, as the van was reportedly descending a steep section of the road towards Ainamoi. This stretch of road is known for its challenging gradient, which can pose significant risks to drivers, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
According to eyewitnesses, the van is suspected to have lost control after an apparent brake failure before veering into the path of an oncoming tipper lorry carrying road construction materials towards Kericho. The two vehicles collided head-on, killing three people travelling in the van. The impact of the collision was severe, highlighting the dangers associated with heavy vehicles on busy roads. Three others sustained critical injuries and were rushed to Kericho County Referral Hospital for treatment. The hospital has been on high alert, preparing to receive trauma cases, especially given the frequency of accidents on this road.
The driver of the tipper lorry escaped with minor injuries. This fact has raised concerns about the safety measures in place for both heavy and light vehicles on the roads. Police officers from Kericho Police Station responded to the scene and removed the bodies, which were taken to the mortuary at Kericho County Referral Hospital. The quick response from law enforcement was crucial in managing the aftermath of the accident and ensuring that the injured received prompt medical attention.
The wreckage of the two vehicles was later towed to Kericho Police Station as investigations into the cause of the accident got underway. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the crash. This incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance and adherence to traffic regulations, particularly on treacherous roads like the Kericho-Ainamoi-Thesalia Road. Local residents have expressed their concerns over road safety and are calling for increased monitoring and enforcement of traffic laws to prevent such tragedies in the future.
