Kisumu County: 21 Dead as School Bus Overturns at Coptic Roundabout
KISUMU, Kenya — A sombre mood has engulfed Kisumu County after 21 people lost their lives when a school bus carrying mourners overturned at the notorious Coptic Roundabout along the Kisumu-Kakamega Road on Friday afternoon.
Nyanza Regional Traffic Commander Peter Maina confirmed the tragedy, noting that the ill-fated vehicle belonged to AIC Naki High School. The passengers were reportedly returning from a burial ceremony in Nyahera, Kisumu when the accident occurred.
Casualties and Injuries
According to authorities, five people sustained critical injuries while another 15 suffered minor cuts, including an eight-month-old infant. The injured were rushed to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital for treatment.
Rescue operations were quickly mounted by the Kenya Red Cross in collaboration with St John Ambulance and various county hospitals. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with a large crowd gathering as emergency teams worked tirelessly to assist victims.
Scene Description and Cause
Images from the scene showed the bright yellow school bus lying on its side near a sharp bend. The exact cause of the accident has not yet been established, but residents say Coptic Roundabout is a well-known blackspot blamed on poor road design, inadequate signage, and reckless driving.
Blackspot History
Most accidents at the roundabout involve heavy trucks or buses overturning. Locals have repeatedly called on the government to redesign the junction to save lives.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution when approaching the area as investigations continue.
