Two Die After Lorry Plunges into River at Soimet Bridge, Bomet

A short market run ended in a family’s worst fear early Saturday when a lorry lost control and plunged into the River Kipsonoi at Soimet Bridge, along the Kaplong–Bomet highway. Two people died at the scene and a third passenger was seriously hurt.

The crash happened at about 5:00 a.m., when, officials say, the lorry hit a bump and the driver lost control before the vehicle rolled into the river. “The lorry hit a bump and lost control before plunging into the river,” Bomet disaster management officer Stanley Mutai told reporters. Rescue teams and local Good Samaritans rushed to the bank, pulling survivors from the wreck and trying to stop heavy bleeding. The two bodies were later moved to Kapkatet morgue.

One passenger, a 27-year-old man, suffered a fractured left leg and is receiving treatment at Kapkatet Hospital, Bomet County Police Boss Edward Imbwaga confirmed. He warned drivers to be extra careful as the nation experiences short rains that make roads slick and hide hazards. Wet roads and sudden potholes, officials say, are a dangerous mix at night and just before dawn.

Picture the scene: cold morning air, a dim highway, a sudden crash and the scramble that follows. In those first minutes, every second counts — and here, the consequences were fatal. Good Samaritans and ambulance crews worked together to move the injured and secure the site while police began the preliminary inquiry.

Investigators will now inspect the lorry, interview witnesses and piece together a timeline to find out whether speed, vehicle condition or load played a role. Vehicle inspection and forensic checks will guide possible charges if mechanical failure or careless driving is found. Local authorities also plan to review the road stretch near Soimet Bridge to see if better signage, speed controls or repairs are needed.

This accident is a reminder of how small things—one bump, a wet patch of road, a tired driver—can turn into a life-ending event. Officials stress simple, effective steps that save lives: slow down, use headlights, keep safe distance, check brakes and avoid overloading. During the short rains, these habits matter more than ever.

For the families, the loss is immediate and raw. Loved ones wait at Kapkatet morgue for formal identification and burial plans. For the community, markets pause, and neighbours rally to help bereaved households.

Police say they will release a fuller report after the vehicle inspection and witness interviews. Meanwhile, officials urge motorists and motorbike riders across Bomet and neighbouring counties to slow down and watch for hidden dangers on the road. If you travel at night or before dawn, remember this: a few extra seconds of care can protect lives.

The wounded are being treated, the dead laid in the morgue, and an investigation is under way.

Featured image via screengrab