Fire at Boarding School in Kenya Kills 16 Students, Injures 74

A fire broke out at a boarding school located in Gilgil, about 120 kilometers west of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, resulting in the deaths of 16 students and injuring an additional 74. A police officer present at the scene provided this information to journalists, also confirming that the injured students are currently receiving treatment in hospital.

According to Kenya Red Cross and police reports, the fire occurred on Thursday morning at Utumisi Girls School while the students were asleep. Rescue and relief operations are ongoing, with authorities stating that the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Emergency response teams from the Kenya Red Cross have arrived at the site to offer assistance.

“This is an extremely tragic and painful situation,” Police Commander Masud Mwini said while addressing parents and local community members gathered outside the school. Similar deadly incidents have occurred in previous years. Analysts attribute the high fatality rates in such incidents largely to overcrowding in hostels and failure to adhere to safety regulations.