A newly-appointed primary school head teacher in Migori County tragically died in a motorbike accident involving a truck, just hours after assuming his new role. The family of 48-year-old Ronald Oyombe is in deep mourning after what was meant to be a joyous day turned into one of immense grief.
According to witnesses, the accident occurred at around 8 p.m. along the Migori-Sori road, near Aego, Akala Primary School. Oyombe died on the spot after a loaded truck collided with his motorbike. The accident took place at the notorious “Conner S,” a stretch known for being particularly dangerous, according to local residents.
Family spokesperson Richard Oyombe shared that Ronald, who was from Obolo in Muhuru Ward, was on his way home from Gogo Primary School when the accident happened. It was his first day as the head of the institution at Gogo Primary School.
“The truck hit him hard on the head, and broke his right leg, killing him on the spot. According to witnesses, the truck only had one headlight working, and it is possible Mwalimu may have mistook it for a motorbike,” said Richard.
According to witnesses, the truck which was carrying traders returning from the nearby Ong’er Market, did not stop immediately after the accident – prompting residents to block it with stones.
According to the family, they received a call on the fateful night from a cousin in Nairobi informing them about the accident, just minutes after it happened.
“At the time of the accident, Mwalimu only had his mobile phone, and a small bag which contained his daughter’s school leaving certificate, and small sack of maize.
“So, one of the first respondents recognized the name ‘Oyombe’ written on the leaving certificate, and called our cousin who is in Nairobi, who shares the same surname, and who in turn called home to inform us of the accident,” said Richard.
“It appears, from the phone messages, that Mwalimu had just withdrawn some money from an Mpesa shop on his way home, which unfortunately was stolen at accident scene,” said Richard.
Police from Macalder were later called to the scene – and took the body to the nearby Nyatike Police station – before it was later transferred to Migori District Hospital morgue after informing family members.
“This is a great tragedy to the family and the teaching fraternity. Mr. Oyombe was a loving dad to his children, a kindhearted man, eloquent, hardworking and very friendly,” said Richard.
The truck is currently at the Macalder Police Station, said Richard.
According to the family, they are yet to set their eyes on the alleged driver of the truck, even as plans for burial, set for September 27, continue.
“Mwalimu has left behind six children and two wives, and one of his daughters is set to sit for her KCSE exams from October,” said Richard.
