The number of people who died in Friday evening’s horrific road crash near Kisumu has climbed to 25, Health Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga confirmed late Friday night.

The crash happened at the Coptic roundabout just outside Kisumu City when a school bus carrying passengers from Nyakach lost control and plunged into a ditch.

Oluga told reporters at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) that 21 victims died instantly at the scene while four others passed away shortly after reaching the hospital.

Currently, 28 patients, including a child, are admitted and receiving treatment for their injuries.

“We have mobilized all health workers on duty and alerted additional personnel to ensure the injured get the best possible care,” Oluga said. He added that efforts are ongoing with the county government and neighboring hospitals to respond effectively to the tragedy.

A blood donation drive will begin at 9:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Leresian Park inside JOOTRH to support those who lost blood in the crash.

The passengers were mostly relatives and friends returning from a funeral in Nyahera, Nyakach. The incident has shocked the entire nation, with PS Olunga describing the loss as heartbreaking.

“This is devastating for the entire nation,” he said. “We stand with the bereaved families and wish the injured a quick recovery.”

Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili joined Dr. Oluga in praising the prompt response from medical teams, the Kenya Red Cross, and security agencies who rushed to the scene.

Several local leaders, including MPs Rosa Buyu (Kisumu West), Dr. Joshua Oron (Kisumu Central), Aduma Owour (Nyakach), and Dr. Greggory Ganda, Kisumu County Health Chief Executive Member, also visited the hospital to offer support.