One pupil has died and two others remain in critical condition after 11 students from Kapsabet School for the Deaf in Nandi County fell into a septic tank Thursday morning.
The tragic incident occurred while students rushed to catch a glimpse of William Ruto’s motorcade, which was passing near the school on its way to Kapsabet Girls High School.
According to eyewitnesses and initial reports, the pupils had climbed onto the slab covering the septic tank to get a better view of the presidential convoy when it suddenly sank, plunging them into the pit.
Teachers, local residents, police officers, and Nandi County Government disaster response teams quickly mobilized rescue efforts.
All 11 pupils were eventually pulled out and rushed to Kapsabet County Referral Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Hospital officials confirmed that one pupil succumbed to injuries, while two others remain in critical condition. The rest are reported to be stable and receiving treatment.
Upon learning of the tragedy during his visit to the area, President Ruto made an impromptu stop at the school to console students, teachers, and affected families.
The President also pledged Ksh 5 million to support medical expenses, recovery efforts, and improvements to the school’s infrastructure.
Stephen Sang, the governor of Nandi County, expressed shock over the incident and assured families that authorities will establish the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and take measures to prevent similar occurrences.
