Trailer collision kills two in Kasese-bound taxi

Summary:

• Two individuals were killed in a collision between a speeding trailer and a taxi at Kasunganyaja Trading Center in Bunyangabu District. The victims, the trailer driver, and a pedestrian were killed, while four taxi passengers sustained serious injuries.

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On Thursday, a tragic incident occurred at Kasunganyaja Trading Center in Bunyangabu District, resulting in the loss of two lives. The unfortunate victims, yet to be identified, were the driver of a trailer and a pedestrian who was crossing the road when the collision occurred.

The accident transpired when the speeding trailer with registration number KBC 135Z collided with a taxi bearing registration number UAK 267E. The taxi had just departed from the stage, and the impact led to serious injuries for four passengers. Eyewitnesses and authorities revealed that both vehicles were en route to Kasese District.

The location of the incident, a sharp corner at 11 am, has gained notoriety as a blackspot with a history of multiple accidents over the years, as reported by residents. According to Mr. Robert Mugume, an eyewitness, the trailer driver was recklessly speeding and sounding the horn as it approached Kasunganyaja Trading Center. Despite attempts to negotiate the corner, the driver failed to brake in time, resulting in a collision with the taxi that had just pulled away in the same direction.

Describing the sequence of events, Mr. Mugume explained that the taxi driver, noticing the approaching trailer, hastily jumped behind the steering wheel in an attempt to escape. Unfortunately, it was too late, and the speeding trailer struck a pedestrian before rebounding off a hump and overturning several times.

The injured taxi passengers were promptly transported to Kilembe Hospital in Kasese District and Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, the taxi driver, reportedly fleeing the scene, is being sought by the police.

Mr. Vincent Twesige, the Rwenzori West region police spokesperson, emphasized the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, stating that proper upkeep could have prevented the tragic crash. He urged all vehicle owners to prioritize servicing before hitting the road.

The incident brings back haunting memories of February 2021 when four lives were lost at the same location. A fuel truck en route to Kasese District lost control, colliding with another truck loaded with bananas en route to Fort Portal.