Tragic Fire at Kenyan School Claims At Least 17 Lives

A devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in Nyeri county, Kenya, has left at least 17 students dead. The blaze broke out around midnight while children were sleeping. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause, and President Ruto has promised a thorough probe and support for affected families.

At least 17 students died after a fire broke out at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in central Kenya, CNN reported on Friday, citing police. The death toll could rise as more than a dozen others are being treated in hospital for severe burns, according to the outlet.

A probe has been launched to determine the cause of the fire, which erupted around midnight and enveloped rooms where children were sleeping. Resila Onyango, spokesperson for the Kenya National Police Service, told CNN that bodies had been "burnt beyond recognition."

Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his condolences over the "devastating news." In a post on X, Ruto said, "Our thoughts are with the families of the children who have lost their lives in the fire tragedy at the Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County." He instructed relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident and promised that those responsible would be held accountable. Ruto emphasized that his government is mobilizing all necessary resources to support the affected families.

The Kenya Red Cross also posted a statement on Friday, announcing that it would provide "psychosocial support services to the pupils, teachers, and affected families." (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)