The victims were traveling in a matatu from Kahiga village, Murang’a, to Rongai in Nakuru County.
They were headed to a family celebration but never arrived after their vehicle collided with an oncoming truck.
Local police reported that the crash happened when the matatu tried to overtake another vehicle.
The impact left all 13 passengers dead on the spot. Both vehicles were badly damaged, and the wreckage was taken to Gilgil Police Station as investigations began.
Family members described the tragedy as the darkest moment in their lives. One relative, identified as Gikonyo, shared that he narrowly escaped death after missing the trip at the last minute.
“I was supposed to join them, but I canceled the journey. That single decision saved me. Among those who died were my parents, my four sisters, our uncle, and his two daughters. The others were cousins,” he said.
Neighbors in Kahiga village have been gathering at the homestead to comfort the grieving family.
Many described the victims as humble, hardworking people who were loved by the community. The sudden loss of an entire branch of the family has left the village in shock.
Leaders from the area also sent their condolences. They urged drivers to be cautious on the Nakuru–Nairobi highway, which has been marked as a dangerous stretch due to repeated accidents.
Religious leaders have encouraged the family to remain strong, reminding them that they are not alone during this painful moment.
Plans are now underway for a joint funeral, though relatives admit it will be an enormous emotional and financial task.
Community members have started contributing to help the family organize the burials.
“This is a wound that will take a long time to heal,” said another family member.
“We had looked forward to a joyful gathering, but it has turned into a tragedy we never imagined.”
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