A rescue mission at Chinche Comprehensive School in Nyamira North turned fatal on July 24 after a pit latrine collapsed twice, killing four men.
Dominic Okundi Nyamanga, 60, was digging the latrine when the walls gave way, trapping him inside. Initial rescue efforts by police, the Nyamira Fire Brigade, local officials, and residents managed to save one injured worker, who was taken to Nyamira County Referral Hospital in stable condition.
During the ongoing rescue, an excavator was brought in to assist recovery. Three local residents—Abel Osoro (35), Dennis Kinanga (37), and Joseph Nyaega (34)—entered the pit to help retrieve Dominic. Tragically, the unstable pit walls collapsed again, burying all four men.
Their bodies were later recovered using heavy machinery and taken to Nyamira County Referral Hospital mortuary pending post-mortem examinations. Authorities have highlighted the risks associated with deep excavation and rescue operations lacking proper structural support and specialized equipment. An official investigation into the incident is underway.
