Murang’a Schoolboy among Two Dead after Drowning in Ithe Rúí River
Two individuals, a 13-year-old schoolboy and a 58-year-old man, drowned in a river in Murang’a, Kenya on Tuesday due to heavy rainfall in the region. The boy was one of three students from Kianjiru-ini Primary School who attempted to cross the Ithe Rúí River, which had become swollen due to the rain.
The boy was swept away by the tide and drowned, and his classmates called out for help. Dominic Ng’ang’a, a 58-year-old man, responded to the distress call and jumped into the river in an attempt to rescue the boy. Unfortunately, both the man and the boy drowned due to the speed of the water and their lack of swimming skills.
The local Deputy County Commissioner, Gitonga Murungi, reported that the bodies were discovered downstream where they had been trapped by rocks and debris. The bodies were taken to Murang’a Level Five hospital mortuary for postmortem. The incident has left the village mourning the loss of two individuals.
According to Joshua Okello, an area Assistant County Commissioner, the boys were attempting to be adventurous by crossing the river instead of using a nearby bridge.
Okello stated that they will mobilize area stakeholders to educate children about the dangers of swollen rivers, and will ensure that the community is aware of the warning issued by the Met Department regarding the expected enhanced rainfall and strong winds in the region, including the Central Highlands.
The tragic incident is a reminder of the dangers of playing or crossing rivers during heavy rainfall. The swift currents and sudden changes in the water level can easily overwhelm even experienced swimmers. It is important to heed weather warnings and avoid crossing rivers during times of heavy rain, even if it may seem like a shortcut or an adventure.
Murang’a Schoolboy among Two Dead after Drowning in Ithe Rúí River