A parent travelling to Utumishi Girls’ Senior School following the deadly dormitory fire lost her life in a road accident on Thursday morning, compounding the grief surrounding the tragedy.
The woman, a mother of a Form Four student at the school, died on the spot after the vehicle she was travelling in with her husband was involved in a crash at Kariandusi along the Nakuru-Gilgil Highway.
Gilgil Sub-County Police Commander Wiston Mwakio confirmed that the couple was heading towards Gilgil when their vehicle collided head-on with an oncoming car.
Mother of Utumishi Student killed on Nakuru-Gilgil Highway. Photo: Courtesy.
He noted that their daughter survived the school fire and remained safe at the institution.
The girl’s father sustained injuries in the accident and was rushed to Gilgil Sub-County Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
The accident occurred as families continued to come to terms with the devastating fire at Utumishi Girls’ Senior School.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed that 16 students lost their lives in the dormitory blaze.
According to the CS, the school had a total of 808 students at the time of the incident. Investigators are working to identify the deceased and establish the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
Ogamba further revealed that 79 students sustained injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.
Of those injured, 71 have since been discharged, seven remain admitted, while one student was released into the care of her parents.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government was standing with all families affected by the tragedy, noting that many learners at the school are children of officers serving in the National Police Service (NPS).
He also appealed for patience as investigations continue, urging the public to avoid speculation and refrain from spreading unverified information about the cause of the fire.
