Ten Family Members Wiped Out in Deadly Nairobi–Nakuru Collision

Ten members of a Gatundu family were killed on 4 January after a public service matatu collided head-on with a Green Line bus at Karai on the Nairobi–Nakuru highway, leaving one child critically injured.

The victims included James Njoroge, his wife Teresia Wanjiru, and their two sons, who were returning to Gilgil after spending the Christmas and New Year holidays with relatives in Gatundu, Kiambu County. Their ten-year-old daughter, Clare Wairimu, was the sole survivor from the family and was transferred to Nairobi for specialised treatment, where she remains in critical condition.

Relatives said the family had enjoyed a peaceful holiday marked by family gatherings and shared plans for the year ahead. Njoroge, the first-born in a family of five, was described as sociable and supportive, with strong ties to both Gatundu and Kiambu. His wife, Teresia, was a teacher at Murindat Primary School in Gilgil, where the family lived, while also maintaining a home in Gatundu.

Harun Thuku, Njoroge’s younger brother, said he was called to Naivasha Sub-County Hospital to identify the bodies. He described the loss of four close family members as devastating and said preparations had already been underway for a family meeting later that week.

The bodies were later moved to Kenyatta University Mortuary as burial arrangements continued in Gatundu. Family members said the cost of mortuary fees and funeral preparations for four people has placed a heavy financial burden on them.

Survivors of the crash alleged that the matatu was being driven recklessly before the collision, though investigations are ongoing. The crash occurred along the Karai section of the Nairobi–Nakuru highway, a stretch long associated with fatal road accidents.

According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), Karai is among 860 accident black spots identified nationwide, with the Rift Valley region recording the highest number. NTSA data shows that most crashes are caused by human error, including speeding, dangerous overtaking, and failure to observe traffic rules.

The authority has also noted that accidents increase during festive periods due to heavier traffic, fatigue, and reduced compliance with road safety regulations. Hazard mapping carried out in 2018 identified the Nairobi–Nakuru corridor as particularly high risk because of sharp bends, steep gradients, and traffic congestion.