Kapchorwa School Bus Tragedy Claims 21 Lives

The devastating crash in Kapchorwa district has claimed the lives of 21 pupils from King David Junior School, Ndejje. The students were on their way back from a study tour when the school bus, registration number UA 108BQ, allegedly experienced mechanical problems and veered off the road on the steep Chekwatit hill.

This notorious stretch of road is recognized as a significant accident black spot in the region. Health officials confirmed that two additional victims passed away while receiving treatment at Kapchorwa General Hospital, bringing the total confirmed death toll to 21.

Nineteen critically injured students have been transferred to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for specialized care, while many others remain under treatment at various local health facilities. Among the identified victims are the school’s director, Tadeo Ssekade, and several students whose names have been released.

Police are continuing their investigations into the precise cause of the accident. Over 70 individuals sustained injuries and were attended to at multiple healthcare centers. The community played a crucial role in the immediate aftermath, providing essential transport, bedding, and manpower for the rescue efforts, an initiative praised by local authorities.

The bodies of the deceased have been moved to the Kapchorwa General Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations and identification by their families. Authorities are working diligently to identify all victims and inform their next of kin, while a comprehensive report on the incident is expected upon completion of the investigation.

https://observer.ug/news/kapchorwa-school-bus-crash-death-toll-rises-to-21