Written by Alice Njoki
Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil Nakuru County, a tragic dormitory fire has left 16 students dead and 79 others injured and hospitalized, in an incident that occurred in the early hours of Thursday, May 28, 2026.
The fire reportedly broke out around 1:00 a.m. while students were asleep in a dormitory identified as the Meline Waithera Block, which housed about 220 learners. Emergency reports indicate the blaze was later officially raised to authorities at around 3:30–4:30 a.m., prompting a large-scale rescue response involving police, fire brigades, Kenya Red Cross, Kenya Defence Forces, and other emergency agencies.
According to police and government officials, the fire spread quickly to the building , making evacuation difficult and trapping several students inside. Some students were rescued while others got injuries while trying to escape, including jumping from windows and upper sections of the building.
The injured students were rushed to nearby medical facilities, including Gilgil Sub-County Hospital and St. Mark’s Hospital, where they are receiving treatment. Authorities have confirmed that out of the 79 injured, many are in stable condition, though a number remain under medical care.
Education officials have stated that the cause of the fire has not yet been established, and investigations by police and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) are ongoing to determine what triggered the blaze and whether safety procedures were followed.
Security agencies have restricted access to the school as they continue rescue, identification of victims, and investigation work. Parents have also been allowed limited access as they await confirmation of their children’s status.
The tragedy has sparked nationwide grief and renewed concern over safety in boarding schools across Kenya, as authorities promise a full investigation and support for affected families. More updates are expected as officials release further verified information.