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Grief and confusion engulfed families at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil on Thursday after a devastating fire broke out at the school, leaving at least 16 students dead and several others injured.
According to the Kenya Red Cross, the blaze started at around 1am.
A guardian who was present at the scene described the heartbreaking moments as students tried to escape from the burning dormitory in panic.
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The guardian said families were still struggling to get clear information on the exact number of casualties, with many parents anxious and searching for their children.
She explained that students on upper floors were forced to jump to safety, leading to many injuries.
“Those who were on the upper floor were jumping, and that is why most of them were hurt. We have heard that some of them were burnt and are in the hospital. We have not been told how many students have passed on. I’m lucky to have found my aunt’s child. She has a broken leg, but she will be fine,” she said.
She also urged authorities to carry out urgent investigations to establish the cause of the fire.
According to her, school officials had not yet addressed parents as tension and anxiety continued to rise at the school.
“Some parents have fainted on the other side, although the Red Cross team are on the ground trying to help,” she added.
In a statement, the Kenya Red Cross confirmed that emergency teams had been deployed to assist in rescue operations and support affected students.
It said first responders, ambulance crews, and psychosocial support teams were working alongside other agencies at the scene.
Authorities said operations were ongoing as teams continued assessing the situation, with investigations into the cause of the fire still underway.
Rift Valley Regional Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi said officers were working to account for all students and establish the full extent of the tragedy, noting that families would be informed first before further details are released.
