Faith Nyasuguta
A heartbreaking fire tore through Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri, a Kenyan town last night, leaving at least 17 pupils dead and 14 others injured in a tragedy that has shocked the nation. The blaze, which erupted in one of the dormitories, reduced the building to ashes, claiming the lives of students who were reportedly burnt beyond recognition.
The National Police Service Spokesperson, Resila Onyango, confirmed the devastating news, stating that 17 pupils had lost their lives while 14 others sustained injuries. “We have 17 pupils dead and 14 injured. We are investigating the cause and will take necessary action,” she stated, as the school grounds turned into a scene of unimaginable grief and horror.
The fire reportedly claimed 15 lives on the spot, with another two children succumbing to injuries while being rushed to the hospital. Authorities fear more bodies may be discovered as investigations continue. The Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations, John Onyango, along with the Senior Assistant Inspector General, the Director of the Homicide Unit, and the National Police Service Disaster Management Unit, are en route to the scene, which has been cordoned off for a thorough investigation.
In response, all emergency teams were immediately dispatched to the site to provide aid and assess the extent of the disaster. The parents and guardians of the affected students were also notified, their worst fears confirmed as they rushed to the school in distress. The atmosphere at the scene is heavy with sorrow and disbelief, as families cling to each other, waiting for news and searching for answers.
Reacting to the tragedy, President William Ruto directed security agencies to expedite their investigations and uncover the cause of the fire. He also instructed the Ministry of Interior and Coordination to mobilize all necessary resources to support the grieving families.
“I instruct relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate this horrific incident. Those responsible will be held to account. The Government, through the Ministry of Interior, is mobilizing all necessary resources to support the affected families,” the President declared in a statement.
Expressing deep remorse, President Ruto conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the government’s unwavering support. “Our thoughts are with the families of the children who have lost their lives in the fire tragedy at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County. This is devastating news. We pray for the speedy recovery of the survivors,” he said, echoing the sentiments of a grieving nation.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also voiced his sorrow, calling for prayers and strength for the affected families. “May God grant the families the fortitude to bear the loss. We ask schools to enforce safety and security measures as outlined by the Ministry of Education and other agencies to avert such incidents,” Gachagua remarked.
As the country mourns the loss of these young lives, there is a renewed call for stringent safety measures in schools to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The collective grief is palpable, and the nation stands united in its call for justice and safety for its children.
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