A devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil on 28 May 2026 has left 16 students dead and 79 others injured, prompting a major emergency response led by the National Police Service and multiple government agencies.
Following the tragedy, the Deputy Inspector General of the Police, Eliud Lagat, arrived at the school to coordinate rescue, evacuation, and initial recovery operations.
According to the National Police Service, police units working alongside emergency responders and medical teams, ensured swift evacuation of injured students to nearby health facilities.
Casualties and Medical Update
NPS stated that 71 of the injured students have since been discharged after receiving treatment, while 8 remain under medical care in stable condition. The fatalities have been moved to designated morgues as families are being notified and supported through the identification process.
Lagat later briefed the CS for Interior, Kipchumba Murkomen, and the Education CS Julius Migos Ogamba, on the progress of the rescue operation and ongoing coordination efforts at the scene. The briefing emphasized inter-agency collaboration in managing both the emergency response and aftermath.
During a press briefing held at the school, government officials extended condolences to the families of the deceased students and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. They also confirmed that counselling and psychosocial support services will be provided to students, parents, and staff affected by the tragedy.
Investigation into Cause of Fire
The National Police Service, through specialized investigative units under the Directorate of Criminal Investigations led by Mohammed Amin, has launched a comprehensive probe to determine the cause of the fire.
Investigators are working alongside forensic experts and other relevant agencies to establish whether the incident was accidental or resulted from negligence or other factors.
A dedicated hotline, 1199, has been activated for inquiries, counselling, and psychological support for affected families and the public.
