More than 40 dead in truck accident in Western Kenya: Authorities

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - A truck crashed into a bustling market in the Londiani area of Kericho in Western Kenya on Friday which resulted in the loss of dozens of lives.

"So far, we have 45 bodies in the hospital mortuary, and the rescue operation is still ongoing," Collins Kipkoech, a doctor at Kericho County Hospital, told reporters.

The gravity of the situation was corroborated by regional police boss, Tom Odera, who also confirmed deaths.

Odera expressed concerns about the possibility of the death toll rising.

"We have about 45 bodies, and the toll may rise," he said, emphasizing the additional challenge of extricating bodies trapped beneath the truck's trailer.

Accidents on roads and highways across Kenya are common, often resulting in significant loss of life.

The accident occurred at approximately 6.30 p.m. local time. Siligent rescue operations are currently underway by authorities and the local community.