A lorry driver from Meru is being celebrated across Kenya after he steered a fully burning vehicle away from a densely populated neighbourhood, putting his own safety aside to protect residents and nearby businesses.
Mathew Kaugiria, who has been behind the wheel for 17 years, was transporting a load of dry hay along the Kwa Nthambi–Majengo road in Meru town when the lorry made contact with low-lying power lines, setting the cargo alight.
Rather than abandon the vehicle, he made the decision to keep driving.
With flames consuming the lorry around him, Kaugiria moved the vehicle approximately 500 metres from the populous Kwa Nthambi estate all the way to the River Kathita, putting significant distance between the blaze and the homes and businesses nearby.
He sustained burns on one hand and on part of his cheek during the ordeal. Speaking about the moment he realised what he had to do, Kaugiria said,
“I saw that many people would get hurt if the lorry stayed in town and I decided to drive the lorry to elsewhere with no people. I also figured that if it stayed burning at the town, the fire would catch electricity lines and cause more damage.”
Once he brought the lorry to the river, residents who had followed rushed to help, using jerricans to draw water and douse the flames until the fire was brought under control.
In a Facebook post that drew widespread attention, Kaugiria reflected on the experience with quiet resolve. “I never imagined that a normal day on the road would turn into a moment that would change my life forever,” he wrote.
“With the lorry engulfed in flames and people’s safety at risk, I had to make a difficult decision. I drove the burning vehicle away from the residential area to protect others from potential harm. It was a frightening moment, but I knew that the safety of other people mattered.”
He added that he was still receiving medical attention for his injuries but remained moved by the public response.
“I am deeply touched by the love and support Kenyans have shown me,” he wrote, noting that he does not regret the choice he made.
Residents praised Kaugiria for his selflessness and for ensuring that no one else was injured during the Friday, October 23, incident.
