What started as a regular academic trip for Moi University students turned tragic on Tuesday, June 17, when their bus was involved in a deadly road crash with a car driven by controversial preacher Gilbert Deya.
`According to police, the Toyota Noah driven by Deya lost control and crashed into the Moi University bus.
In a desperate attempt to avoid a head-on collision with oncoming vehicles, the bus driver swerved off the road, and the vehicle toppled onto its side.
The crash happened at Namba Kapiyo along the Kisumu–Bondo Road in Kisumu County.
Deya had two passengers in the car, including his wife. The impact was severe, and the collision also involved a Toyota Fortuner registered to the County Government of Siaya.
Gilbert Deya died on the spot.
The university bus was carrying 50 Fourth-Year students from the School of Arts and Social Sciences who were on an academic field trip in the Nyanza region.
At least 15 students were seriously injured and rushed to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Another 13 students were treated for minor injuries. Two lecturers who were with the students were also injured but later discharged after treatment.
Moi University, in a statement released on Wednesday, June 18, said all the injured students are in stable condition and are getting the medical attention they need.
The university has rolled out support services like counseling, transport, and accommodation for the affected students and staff. It also thanked local residents and Good Samaritans who quickly came to their aid.
Moi University Students Organisation (MUSO) Secretary-General Edwin Kiplagat called for calm and unity during this tough time.
The university is staying in touch with the families of those affected and continues to monitor the situation as investigations go on.
By Vivian K.