Four killed, 16 injured in Meru-Nkubu Road crash

At least four people were killed and about 16 others injured after a lorry carrying compost manure lost control and hit pedestrians, motorcycle riders and several vehicles along the Meru-Nkubu Road in Meru town.

The accident occurred at around 9 pm on Thursday, October 8, in the River Land area as the lorry descended a steep slope towards Nkubu, police said.

According to police, the lorry was travelling from Makutano towards Nkubu when it reportedly suffered brake failure.

The vehicle descended uncontrollably and rammed into a stationary Toyota matatu before hitting pedestrians and motorcycle riders by the roadside.

The lorry then crashed into two other vehicles, both Toyota Sientas, before overturning onto its left side.

Four people died in the crash, police and witnesses said.

About 16 others sustained injuries and were rushed to Meru Level Five Hospital for treatment.

Traffic officers from Meru, alongside the Imenti North Sub-County Police Commander, responded to the scene and coordinated rescue operations.

The bodies of the deceased were taken to the hospital mortuary, where they were awaiting postmortem examinations.

Two motorcycles were also extensively damaged in the crash.

The damaged motorcycles and vehicles were towed to the police station yard pending inspection as officers documented the scene and began investigations.

Police said 12 people, including six pedestrians, were killed in accidents on Thursday night alone.

The accidents also left 32 people seriously injured, police said.

Fatal accidents have surged in the country amid operations to address the menace.

More than 4,000 people are killed annually in road accidents across the country, according to statistics. Thousands of others sustain serious injuries, affecting their families and friends.

Officials have been running campaigns to address the problem.

Officials say the leading causes of fatal crashes include hit-and-runs, tyre bursts, and vehicles and motorcycles losing control.