By Robai Ludenyi
Two people have been confirmed dead and 14 others injured following a petroleum tanker explosion along the Eldoret-Turbo road near Paul Boit Secondary School on Thursday night.
The incident occurred after a road accident involving the petroleum tanker, with the explosion causing multiple casualties in the surrounding area. The two people who died are suspected to have been attempting to collect fuel from the tanker when the explosion occurred.
The incident has prompted an emergency response involving the Kenya Red Cross, Kenya Police and firefighters, who moved to the affected area to assist the injured and manage the situation.
The Kenya Red Cross confirmed that it had activated a mass casualty response following the explosion. In a post shared on X at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Thursday, the organisation said its emergency teams were already on the ground working alongside other response agencies.
The explosion has raised concerns about the dangers of approaching petroleum tankers involved in road accidents, particularly when fuel is leaking or has spilt at the scene. Individuals attempting to collect fuel from damaged tankers may face serious risks from fire, explosions and other hazardous conditions.
The circumstances surrounding the accident, including what caused the tanker to lose control and the
events that led to the explosion, had not been fully established in the initial report. Authorities and
emergency agencies were continuing their response as they worked to assist those affected.
Motorists using the Eldoret-Turbo road have been urged to avoid the affected section near Paul Boit Secondary School. The advisory is intended to allow emergency responders to access the scene without obstruction and carry out rescue operations.
Road users have also been encouraged to cooperate with emergency personnel and follow instructions issued by the authorities as the response continues. Keeping the affected area clear is essential to ensure that ambulances, firefighters and other emergency vehicles can move freely.
The incident remains under emergency response, with further information expected from relevant authorities as more details become available. The public is advised to rely on official updates on the number of casualties, the road situation, and ongoing emergency operations.