11 people were confirmed dead and several injured after the matatu rolled several times after losing control. The tragic accident occurred on Saturday 4th June at 11 pm at Kanyonyoo junction in Kitui Rural constituency along Kangonde-Kabati-Kitui road.
According to Kanyonyoo area chief Jacob Mueti Sammy, the 14-seater matatu was reportedly carrying excess passengers who were coming from a dowry function at Mbondoni in the Mwingi West constituency.
“11 people have lost their lives from the accident that occurred at a place called Nzokani just after the Kanyonyoo junction on your way to Kabati. It’s like the driver was overtaking where he lost control and it was also carrying excess people because after the accident most of the people were thrown outside,” the area chief said.
The chief also confirmed that there are several people who were rushed to the hospital and out of the 11 confirmed deaths, some of them died on the spot while others died on their way to the hospital.
“Two were taken to Matuu level 4 hospital in Machakos County for treatment where one of them died and there are others who have been transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital since they were in critical condition,” he added.
Others were taken to Kitui level 4 hospital to receive treatment and some of the deceased were taken to Kitui Level 4 mortuary.
Mauvoo News learned that the driver of the matatu disappeared after the accident and was later found in the nearby forest on Sunday morning.