Two people are nursing injuries after a truck driver tried to beat an approaching train at Pamusu Junction in Bungoma County, only for the risky attempt to end in a violent collision.
The crash happened early Monday morning along the Pamusu Lusaka Road, where the highway crosses the railway line, and it immediately caused concern among residents and transport officials.
Reports from the area show that the trailer was moving at high speed when its driver attempted to cross the tracks despite the train being close.
Witnesses explained that the train crew repeatedly sounded the horn to warn the driver, but he did not act fast enough. Moments later, the heavy truck lost control and was struck by the train, leaving mangled metal and injured victims at the scene.
People living near the junction rushed out after hearing the loud impact. Instead of helping, some individuals began stealing goods from the damaged truck, creating disorder and making it harder for emergency teams to secure the area.
Traffic police and other first responders arrived shortly afterward to evaluate the damage, assist the injured, and restore order.
Following the incident, the Motorists Association of Kenya expressed strong criticism, arguing that such accidents should not still be occurring. The group questioned how a truck and a train could collide at a time when modern transport systems are expected to prioritize safety.
They urged the government to introduce long term solutions that prevent what they described as outdated tragedies.
The Bungoma crash has drawn comparisons to a previous accident in Naivasha, where a Kenya Pipeline Company bus collided with a cargo train at Morendat Junction.
That incident, which took place on Thursday, August 7, claimed six lives after the bus driver attempted to cross the tracks with passengers aboard.
The train driver reportedly used emergency brakes, but the distance was too short to avoid the impact.
In response to the growing number of similar cases, Kenya Railways Corporation has issued a fresh warning to motorists and members of the public. The agency reminded road users to slow down, look out for trains, and act cautiously whenever they approach a railway crossing.
According to Kenya Railways, such simple steps can prevent loss of life and reduce the chances of another devastating collision.
Authorities in Bungoma are now continuing investigations to establish whether reckless driving, poor judgment, or mechanical issues contributed to the latest crash. Emergency teams have also urged residents to avoid tampering with accident scenes, saying such actions delay rescue efforts and put more lives at risk.
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