Machakos: Parents demand justice after their 3 year-old son was ran over by a school bus
A somber mood pervaded Shalom Morgue in Athi River, Machakos County, as family and friends gathered for the postmortem examination of Baby Liam Kipruto.
The three-year-old's untimely death has left his loved ones in shock and grief, particularly since receiving devastating news from GoodRich International School, where Liam was a student.
According to reports, Liam's fatal accident occurred shortly after leaving the school premises.
Distraught relatives describe their encounter with the school bus driver upon arrival at the scene.
According to Deborah Nasiremde, a relative, the driver claimed that Liam, who was sitting beside him, unexpectedly opened the door and fell out, causing the tragic incident.
However, Liam's family is not convinced by this explanation. They wonder why the bus driver and a matron skipped dropping off Liam at their home, which is only two kilometers from the accident site.
They are also concerned about the decision to let Liam sit in the co-driver seat without proper supervision.
Liam's mother, Mercy Nasirembe, is determined to learn the truth about her son's death.
Nasirembe demanded transparency from the school administration: "Why did you take my son to that area? Why did you leave my house and take my son there? I want to know the truth."
Elijah Kimtai, Liam's father, echoes her concerns about the child's lack of adequate care during the journey.
In response to the incident, authorities apprehended the bus driver, identified as James Muoki.
Muoki was later released on 30,000 shillings cash bail, with further legal proceedings set for Monday.
Meanwhile, the school administration, accused of negligence by the bereaved family, has remained silent, failing to address the concerns raised.
Mercy Nasirembe expresses frustration with the school's silence, emphasizing the importance of obtaining clarity: "In as much as I have lost my son, I need to know what really happened. The school is avoiding us, and they do not understand our pain."
A postmortem examination revealed that Liam's tragic death was caused by severe head injuries sustained while being struck by the bus.
As investigations continue, authorities have impounded the school bus for further investigation.
