Six Family Members Killed in Tragedy as Car Plunges into River Kiama in Murang’a.

In a devastating incident that has rocked the community of Gatanga in Murang’a County, six members of one family lost their lives when a vehicle they were traveling in plunged into the River Kiama along the Chomo–Kahunyo road.

The Incident

The crash occurred at the Wacengu Bridge crossing over River Kiama on Saturday night, October 25, 2025.The family was returning home from a dowry ceremony in Kiambu County when the minivan reportedly developed a brake failure and lost control. It then veered off the road and plunged into the river.

Rescue teams recovered the bodies of six victims early Sunday morning, but the operation remains tense as others were injured and rushed to hospital.

Victims and Response

Although the names of the deceased have not yet been publicly released, it is confirmed that the victims were part of the same extended family returning from the ceremony. Seven other passengers survived the crash with injuries and are currently admitted at Kirwara Level 4 Hospital and Murang’a Level 5 Hospital.

Senator Joe Nyutu issued a statement describing the tragedy as “heartbreaking” — stressing that the victims had spent a day celebrating love and tradition only to have their lives cut short just a short distance from home.

Critical Safety Concerns

Initial reports suggest that brake failure may have been a leading cause of the loss of control. The vehicle’s front section was found fully submerged in the river, underscoring the severity of the crash.

Road safety experts say this incident highlights recurring issues on rural roads: poor maintenance of bridges and vehicles, combined with high speeds and mechanical failures, contribute to tragedies such as this.

What This Means

• For the Gatanga community: A day of celebration has turned into mourning, with multiple homes grappling with sudden loss and grief.
• For Murang’a County leadership and road safety authorities: The incident prompts urgent reassessment of vehicle inspection protocols and the safety condition of bridge crossings like Wacengu.
• Nationally: It adds to a rising number of fatal accidents across Kenya tied to vehicle failures and rural road hazards.