The scene of accident where five people died on the spot after the 14 seater matatu they were travelling in overturned along Matuu-Mwingi road at Mwatungo area in Masinga, Machakos County on June 3, 2025./GEORGE OWITI
Seven people have died, and several others were injured, in a horrific road accident along the Matuu–Mwingi road in Masinga, Machakos County.
The accident occurred on Tuesday at around 4pm in the Mwatungo area of Masinga sub-county. It involved a 14-seater matatu operated by KINATHI Sacco that was traveling from Matuu towards Mwingi.
Police sources, who requested anonymity as they are not authorised to speak to the media, said five people died on the spot, including three men, a woman, and a child.
Their bodies were taken to a mortuary in Mwingi, Kitui County.
Two other victims later succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment at Kithyoko Health Centre and Matuu Level 4 Hospital, bringing the death toll to seven.
The identities of the deceased have yet to be released.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing five bodies at the scene immediately after the matatu overturned and rolled several times.
Rescue efforts were quickly launched by police officers and members of the public, who transported the injured to various hospitals, including Kanyonyoo AP College Hospital.
An ambulance from Machakos County Government was also deployed to assist in the evacuation of victims.
The mangled wreckage of the matatu has since been towed to Nguutani Police Station pending inspection, as police launch investigations into the cause of the crash.
The tragedy comes just two days after another serious road accident in Athi River, Machakos County, where several people were injured when a public service vehicle crashed near the Crystal Mall at Stage 39 bridge.
The victims in that incident were rushed to nearby hospitals, while the wreckage was taken to Athi River Police Station for examination.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging motorists and passengers to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines on the road.