A tragic fire incident in Brigadier Town, Bungoma County, has claimed the lives of three people, including a four-year-old child. The victims were burnt beyond recognition after their residential house caught fire in the early hours of Tuesday morning while they were asleep.
According to initial reports, neighbours were awakened by screams coming from the house and rushed to the scene in an attempt to rescue the victims. Despite their efforts, they were unable to save them as the steel doors made it difficult to gain access. By the time the fire was put out, the three occupants had already succumbed to the blaze.
The deceased were identified as 59-year-old Darwood Simiyu Busuru, 49-year-old Nancy Simiyu, and a four-year-old child known only as Jaysen. Their bodies were moved to the local mortuary awaiting postmortem examination. The cause of the fire has not yet been established, but authorities have launched investigations to determine whether it was an accident or a deliberate act.
Police officers at the scene indicated that they suspect arson, though no arrests have been made. A multidisciplinary team, including experts from Kenya Power, visited the site to rule out possible electrical faults. Investigators are expected to release a detailed report once forensic examinations are completed.
In a separate incident in Mudete area, Vihiga County, two siblings aged 19 and 10 lost their lives after being struck by lightning during heavy rainfall. A third sibling, aged 13, sustained injuries and was rushed to hospital where they are recovering in stable condition. The victims were reportedly warming themselves in their kitchen when the lightning struck.
Cases of lightning-related deaths have been increasing in recent weeks, with similar incidents reported in Nakuru, Bomet, and Kitale. Local residents have expressed concern and are calling on experts to install lightning arresters in their communities to prevent further loss of life.
Meanwhile, in another tragic event in Baharini, Uasin Gishu County, a three-year-old boy drowned after falling into an open borehole in a residential compound. The child was playing with other children when he accidentally slipped and fell into the hole. His body was later retrieved and taken to the mortuary as investigations continue.
These recent incidents highlight the growing need for enhanced community safety measures, improved infrastructure, and heightened public awareness to prevent avoidable tragedies.
