13 killed in tragic Bomet multi-vehicle road crash

13 people were killed, while 11 others were seriously injured in a road crash involving three vehicles at Cheptangulgei on the Kaplong-Kericho highway.

Those injured were taken to Kaplong and Kapkatet Hospitals for further medical attention.

The Saturday afternoon accident at Cheptangulgei involved a private car, a 14-seater matatu, and a lorry.

Bomet Traffic Commandant Amos Namasaka said that several passengers died on the spot, with others rushed to hospitals in Bomet and Kericho counties for emergency treatment.

According to Capital FM, preliminary investigations indicated that the private car was ferrying individuals from a celebration, with loud music and careless driving cited as contributing factors to the crash, which occurred at around 2:50 pm.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, five people who were critically injured were referred to Tenwek Hospital, while others were treated at nearby health facilities.

Rescue efforts involved the Bomet County Government, Kenya Police, and emergency responders from Kaplong Mission Hospital.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki took to his Facebook page to condole with the families who lost loved ones in the tragedy.

"Condolences and deep sympathies to the families and friends of the 13 victims of the fatal road traffic accident that occurred earlier today at Kapkatet along the Kaplong- Kericho highway. May the almighty God comfort the bereaved," said Kindiki.

"Respect for road safety rules, stricter enforcement measures and simple courtesies among motorists should help our nation mitigate against the high number of road fatalities that we are experiencing."

The National Police Service confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with initial findings pointing to a head-on collision between the matatu and the lorry.

Police urged motorists to observe speed limits and be cautious, especially during overtaking.