Same crash toll rises to 42 as 36 identified
KILIMANJARO: DEATH toll from the tragic road accident that occurred in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region last Saturday has risen to 42.
Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner (RC) Mr Nurdin Babu confirmed the updated figure during a press briefing held in Moshi yesterday, providing a follow-up report on the incident.
“The increase in the death toll is due to the passing of several passengers who had sustained injuries and were receiving treatment at the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) Zonal Referral Hospital,” he said.
Breaking down the fatality figures, Mr Babu said that 31 of the deceased were aboard a Toyota Coaster minibus, 21 women and 10 men. An additional 11 victims were passengers in a Channel One company bus, including seven women and four men.
“Both vehicles caught fire during the accident, leading to the high number of casualties,” he explained.
Regarding the injured, Mr Babu noted that 28 individuals received treatment at Same District Hospital, Mawenzi Regional Referral Hospital and KCMC.
“Out of the 28 injured, 24 have been treated and discharged while two are still under medical care.
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Two others have succumbed to their injuries, bringing the total number of fatalities to 42,” he added.
On the identification and burial of the deceased, Mr Babu announced that the government had received DNA test results from the Chief Government Chemist for 36 victims.
“We received the DNA test results today (yesterday), confirming the identities of 36 bodies,” he said. “The process of handing over the bodies to their respective families will begin on Thursday morning (today), at KCMC Zonal Referral Hospital,” he said.
He further noted that six victims who were easily identified had already been buried on June 30th, this year, after their bodies were handed over to their families.
“The government has fully covered the burial expenses for all victims of the accident,” the Regional Commissioner stated.
Mr Babu also revealed that, following the accident, the government has initiated a series of steps through relevant agencies, including a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
“Additional measures include assessing road conditions and identifying accident risk indicators with the aim of preventing similar tragedies.
A detailed report on the Same accident is being prepared and will be submitted to the appropriate national authorities,” he said.
