Ruto mourns students killed in Utumishi Girls’ Academy dormitory fire
President William Ruto has conveyed his condolences to families who lost daughters in a devastating dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, which killed at least 10 students and left dozens more injured in the early hours of Thursday, May 28, 2026.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls’ Academy in Gilgil,” the President wrote on X. “No words can truly ease the pain of losing young lives filled with promise, hope, and dreams for the future.”
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Ruto says the government’s immediate focus is on rescue efforts, treatment of the injured, and support for affected families as investigations into the cause of the blaze continue. “As a nation, we mourn with the parents, guardians, teachers, and fellow students who are enduring this unimaginable tragedy,” he added.
What is known so far
According to the Kenya Red Cross, the fire broke out at approximately 1:00 am but was officially reported at around 3:30 am.
Emergency response teams, including Kenya Red Cross first responders, EMS Kenya ambulance crews, and psychosocial support personnel, were deployed to the scene.
Rift Valley Regional Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi confirmed at least 10 students are dead, with the injured transported to St Joseph’s Hospital in Gilgil for treatment. A head count is still underway, and authorities say the final casualty figure has not yet been established.
Families gather at school gates
Anxious parents and relatives began arriving at the institution as early as 4:00 am, gathering at the school gates as authorities, education officials, and security officers streamed into the compound. The cause of the fire has not yet been established, and investigations are ongoing.
Kenya Red Cross confirms its psychosocial support teams are assisting traumatised students, parents, and teachers as the situation continues to develop. This is a breaking story and will be updated as further details emerge.
