Kenya School Fire: A devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in Nyeri County, Kenya, claimed the lives of 17 students and left 13 others with serious burns, police reported on Friday (September 6). Authorities fear the death toll could rise as investigations continue.
The blaze, which broke out Thursday night in one of the school’s dormitories, is under investigation. Police spokesperson Resila Onyango stated, “We are investigating the cause and will take necessary action.” A team of officers, led by the Deputy Director of CID John Onyango and Director of Homicide Martin Nyuguto, has been deployed to the scene.
The Kenya Red Cross is providing psychosocial support to affected families and has set up a tracing desk at the school. Fires in Kenyan boarding schools are not uncommon, with some linked to student unrest. In 2017, a similar fire in Nairobi killed 10 students in an arson attack.
School fires have been a recurring issue in Kenya, with hundreds of incidents reported between 2015 and 2016. The cause of the Hillside Endarasha blaze remains undetermined as authorities continue their investigation.
Key Points
Fatal School Fire: A fire at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in Nyeri County, Kenya, killed 17 students and injured 13 others.
Investigation Underway: The cause of the fire, which occurred Thursday night, is under investigation by police. A team led by senior investigators has been deployed to the scene.
Rising Death Toll: Authorities have warned that the death toll could rise as more bodies may be recovered.
Kenya Red Cross Support: The Kenya Red Cross is providing psychosocial support to affected students, teachers, and families, and has set up a tracing desk at the school.
History of School Fires: Fires in Kenyan boarding schools are common, with some linked to student unrest. Previous incidents include a 2017 arson attack in Nairobi that killed 10 students.
Ongoing Issue: Between 2015 and 2016, 350 Kenyan schools caught fire, highlighting a recurring problem with school safety.
