A truck rammed several other vehicles and market vendors in western Kenya, killing at least 51 people, police said.
Friday night’s accident happened at a location known for vehicle crashes near the Rift Valley town of Londiani, which is about 200 kilometers (125 miles) northwest of the capital Nairobi.
Officers at the scene counted 51 bodies, but more people were believed to be trapped in the rubble, Rift Valley Police Commander Tom Odera told The Associated Press.
The Kenya Red Cross said Saturday that 32 people were injured and hospitalized and urged Kenyans to donate blood. It also said heavy rains disrupted rescue efforts and people were still trapped in wrecked vehicles.
People stand near the wrecked vehicles following a fatal accident in Londiani, Kenya, Friday, June 30, 2023, at a location notorious for accidents some 200 kilometers (125 miles) northwest of the capital Nairobi. Dozens of people were killed on Friday, police said, when a truck rammed several other vehicles and market vendors. (AP Photo) / AP
Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen visited the scene of the accident on Saturday morning and said the government will move markets off the highways to prevent such accidents in the future.
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President William Ruto tweeted a message of condolence to the bereaved, describing the accident as “distressing” and urging motorists to be “extra careful.”
Witnesses cited by local media said the truck veered off the main road and hit several vehicles before hitting pedestrians and vendors. Witnesses shared photos of the vehicle wreckage, which was shredded beyond recognition.
The police said on Friday that the rescue work would continue into the night.
The Kenyan Red Cross said they have set up stations in hospitals where people can report their missing loved ones and provide psychological support to those affected.
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