Bodies of 6 dead in Nandi helicopter crash taken to MTRH Eldoret

MTRH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Philip Kirwa confirmed the hospital received the six bodies, noting that they were burnt beyond recognition, urging the public and bereaved families to remain patient as identification, and dressing of the bodies is underway.

Leaders from across the North Rift and neighbouring regions converged at MTRH to mourn the victims and call for calm as investigations begin. 

Nandi County Senator Samson Cherargei cautioned against speculation, urging the public to allow investigators to establish the cause of the crash. He also appealed to pilots to exercise extra caution during the ongoing rainy season.

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii described the loss as deeply painful, and said the county stands with the affected families and the Kipsigis community. Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wesley Rotich and Nandi County Governor Stephen Sang also sent messages of condolence.

Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu, who visited the MTRH morgue to view the bodies, said he had spoken with Jonathan Ngeno earlier on the morning of the incident. According to Governor Ntutu, Ngeno informed him that he was heading out and that they would meet later.

The Narok governor urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that the government has committed to conducting thorough investigations to establish what happened. 

Several legislators from the region were present at the hospital, echoing calls for patience, unity and cooperation with investigators as authorities work to determine the cause of the chopper crash.

The helicopter crashed and burst into flames on the edge of Chepkieb Forest in Mosop, Nandi County, at about 4.45pm, moments after attempting to take off from a makeshift landing site near the forest, following what witnesses described as poor visibility caused by ongoing rains in the area.

According to residents, the aircraft had earlier made an emergency landing at around 4pm as weather conditions deteriorated. The pilot is said to have briefly engaged herders near the site in conversation while assessing the situation.

All six people on board, including the pilot, are believed to have died on the spot. The aircraft had reportedly ferried five passengers en route from Endebess before the crash.

President William Ruto eulogised the late MP as focused, vocal and fearless, noting that he stood firmly for justice and equity. He said Ng’eno would be remembered for the tangible development gains achieved during his tenure and for his strong support of local talent, particularly in the music industry.

“My friend, Mheshimiwa Ng’eno, was a progressive and devoted servant of the people who worked tirelessly on behalf of the residents of Emurua Dikirr, Narok County,” the President said.

Deputy President Kindiki equally paid glowing tribute to the fallen lawmaker, describing him as a dear friend, a courageous leader and a committed member of the ruling party.

“My prayers go to the family and constituents of my dear friend Johana Ng’eno… following his demise in a tragic helicopter crash earlier this evening,” Kindiki said.