A survivor from the Kenyatta University (KU) bus crash that left eleven students dead has bravely stepped forward to recount the heart-wrenching last moments before the tragic collision.
He was part of a group of public health students from the University who were on a journey to Mombasa for an academic trip.
The survivor vividly described the sequence of events that led to the fatal crash, revealing how a fateful overtaking maneuver by the bus driver resulted in a catastrophic collision with a trailer.
“We were on a trip with our school. So, just after Mtito Andei, our driver was trying to overtake. The trailer came right at us and crashed into our bus from behind. Those who were seated in the rear were the ones who were severely hurt in the accident,” said the student.
Details of the moments that led up to the accident
The survivor’s account paints a vivid picture of the chaos and horror that unfolded inside the bus as the collision unfolded.
Despite the passengers’ efforts to secure themselves with seatbelts, the impact of the crash was so severe that some were violently thrown from their seats, causing serious injuries and chaos among those on board.
Also Read: Kindiki Announces Crackdown on Select Vehicles Amid Surging Accidents
“Those of us who didn’t have seatbelts on were thrown outside. I fell but only sustained injuries on my arm, my friend over here sustained neck injuries,” he said while pointing at his friend.
The student also expressed his concern and uncertainty over the well-being of friends involved in the crash saying, “It was raining heavily at the time of the accident, and even up to now I don’t know where some of my other friends are.”
The survivor’s recollection of the sudden and violent nature of the accident underscores the sheer devastation that befell the students, claiming the lives of 11 and leaving several others wounded and traumatized.
Public reaction to the tragic KU accident
As the nation grappled with the news of this tragic event, an outpouring of grief and solidarity swept through social media platforms, reflecting the profound impact of the loss on the community.
“Yesterday Kenyatta University lost lives, my heart goes out to the parents of those involved. The distress calls they are making trying to reach their loved ones, the long nights they’ve had to endure, the painful tears they’ve shed in the last 12 hours! Nothing can take away the pain! we are with you in prayers.”
Also Read: 11 Kenyatta University Students Die in Grisly Road Accident
“We are thinking of you and in our silent moments we ask God to give you strength to face this storm. It might not be well now but eventually it will be. Peace to you Rest in peace Comrades!” said Dr. Benard Karanja, HSC, a passionate youth leader.
The survivor’s firsthand perspective on the chaos and trauma experienced during the accident highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and adherence to traffic regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In recent developments, the University has suspended learning for 3 days from Wednesday, March 20 in honor of the 11 students who died in the tragic road accident.
