Progressive Report: Death Toll in Omoro Highway Crash Rises to 15
OMORO DISTRICT — Police have confirmed that the death toll from the fatal road crash that occurred along the Kampala–Gulu Highway in Bobi Sub-county, Omoro District, has risen to 15, while 24 other people remain hospitalized with serious injuries.
The accident happened at about 9:40 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, at Lwena Village when an Opit Travellers Bus travelling from Kampala to Gulu collided head-on with a Kenyan-registered Mercedes-Benz Actros semi-trailer.
According to a progressive police report, the bus, registration number UBE 110H, was reportedly travelling at a high speed when its driver attempted to avoid a pedestrian who was crossing the highway. In the process, the driver lost control of the bus, veered into the opposite lane and crashed into the oncoming trailer, registration numbers KBS 564D/ZE 7948.
The bus driver, Abdul Ismail, 55, died instantly alongside the trailer driver, Umar Ahmed Hussein, 38, a Kenyan national, and Ahmed Aden from Mombasa, Kenya, who was travelling in the trailer.
The other victims were identified as Aguti Justine Jesse, 23, Ojok Bosco, 60, Ajok Harriet, 40, Odoch Stanley Uhuru, 37, Apiyo Rose, 41, Ausi Justine, 28, Ojok John Paul, 49, Odong Walter Uhuru, 37, Watmon John, 78, Kinyera Godfrey Acire, 35, Maniriho Philip, 30, and Kadara Musamin, 28. Most of the deceased were passengers aboard the bus travelling to Gulu.
Police said 24 survivors sustained serious injuries and were evacuated to various hospitals and health facilities in Gulu City, where they are receiving treatment. The injured include residents of Gulu, Omoro, Lamwo, Pader, Kampala and one Kenyan national.
Traffic police, together with other security agencies and rescue teams, responded to the scene shortly after the crash. They recovered the bodies, rescued the injured, documented the accident scene and recorded statements from survivors and eyewitnesses as investigations continue.
Police said the unidentified pedestrian the bus driver reportedly tried to avoid is yet to be traced as inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash continue.
In a statement, police urged motorists to observe speed limits and exercise greater caution while using the roads.
”We urge all motorists to respect speed limits and prioritize the safety of passengers and other road users. This tragic crash is regrettable, and we extend our condolences to the bereaved families while wishing the injured a quick recovery,” police said.
The latest report may be updated as investigations continue and as the condition of those admitted to hospital is monitored.
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