Kenya Medical Plane Crash Leaves Six Dead, Two Injured

A tragic aviation accident occurred near the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, when an air ambulance crashed into a residential area in Ruiru, Kiambu County, killing at least six people and injuring two others. The aircraft, a Cessna Citation XLS operated by Amref Flying Doctors, had departed from Wilson Airport at 2:17 PM local time on Thursday and was en route to Somaliland. The crash happened shortly after 3:00 PM.

Kiambu County Commissioner Henry Wafula confirmed that four people on board, including the pilot, died in the crash. Additionally, two residents of the house that the aircraft crashed into were also killed. Two others on the ground sustained serious injuries. The incident has sparked grief and concern in the local community, with emotional scenes unfolding as emergency responders worked at the site.

Images shared by AFP reporters captured the aftermath, showing a large crowd gathering at the crash site as emergency crews from the Kenya Red Cross and other first responders sifted through the debris in search of survivors or remains. Witnesses reported harrowing experiences, describing how the plane appeared to catch fire mid-air before it crashed.

Local resident Tasha Wanjira said that she saw the plane burning in the sky before it plunged into the neighborhood. Another resident, Irene Wangui, recalled the terrifying moment the aircraft flew low over her building, shaking it violently. She described the horror at the crash site, saying body parts were scattered all around after the impact.

As evening fell, hundreds of people remained at the scene, many in shock and grief. Residents were seen crying, and some were being consoled by neighbors. Margaret Wairimu, whose home was destroyed by the crash, broke down as she recounted the experience. She expressed her relief that her children were not at home at the time but lamented the loss of everything she owned.

Amref Flying Doctors, the operator of the ill-fated plane, confirmed the incident. CEO Stephen Gitau stated that one of their aircraft had been involved in a fatal accident but did not provide many details, citing the need to focus on the safety and well-being of those involved. The company assured the public that they were cooperating fully with aviation authorities and emergency response teams to investigate the cause of the crash.

Founded in 1957, Amref Flying Doctors is a well-known humanitarian organization based in Nairobi. Originally established as the Flying Doctors of East Africa, the organization has played a crucial role in providing emergency medical evacuation and air ambulance services across the region. The crash marks a significant and tragic moment in the organization's long-standing history of medical service.

Authorities are expected to carry out a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash. In the meantime, the incident has left the local community shaken, with many questioning how such a tragedy could occur in a densely populated area. The focus remains on supporting the victims’ families, treating the injured, and uncovering the facts behind the fatal crash.