Eight Dead, One Injured in Head-On Collision on Mbarara–Lyantonde Highway
Kiruhura District, Uganda – Eight people have died and one sustained serious injuries following a fatal head-on collision on Friday evening along the Mbarara–Lyantonde Highway in Kiruhura District.
The crash occurred around 6:30 pm at Kibega I Village, involving a white Toyota Hiace (registration UBQ 016U) and a Mercedes Benz Actros trailer (registration KDQ 668L/ZH 5133).
According to SP Samson Kasasira, all fatalities and the critically injured victim were occupants of the Toyota Hiace.
“It’s alleged that the Toyota Hiace was traveling from Mbarara to Lyantonde, while the trailer was coming from Lyantonde to Mbarara,” SP Kasasira explained.
“The driver of the Toyota Hiace attempted to overtake at a corner and collided head-on with the trailer, which was in its rightful lane.”
Immediate Impact and Rescue Efforts
The collision caused instant fatalities, leaving one passenger critically injured. The survivor was rushed to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Four bodies reportedly remain trapped in the wreckage as police and rescue teams continue efforts to retrieve them. Identification of all deceased victims is underway.
Police Cite Reckless Driving
Authorities have attributed the crash to reckless driving. SP Kasasira urged motorists to observe traffic regulations, emphasizing the dangers of overtaking at blind spots and corners.
“Drivers are advised to avoid risky maneuvers that endanger lives, particularly on busy highways like Mbarara–Lyantonde,” he said.
Road Safety Concerns
Traffic police responded promptly to manage the scene and begin investigations. The tragic incident adds to growing concerns about road safety on the Mbarara–Lyantonde Highway, which has recorded multiple fatal accidents in recent months.
Authorities continue to appeal for cautious driving to prevent further loss of life along Uganda’s busy transport corridors.
