Family seeks justice after Ngelani Boys student dies in water bowser accident

According to preliminary reports, the incident involved a water bowser said to be faulty and which students were allegedly often called upon to push to start.

The tragedy occurred on Sunday, February 22, when Munyao and other learners were assisting.

Investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) indicate that the student, together with others, attempted to ride the vehicle but slipped and was fatally pressed against the pavement by the rear side of the bowser.

He was rushed to Machakos Level 5 Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival, before his body was moved to the hospital morgue.

The family, led by Charles Makau, said they were left dissatisfied with the explanation provided by the school’s administration, terming it evasive and unjustifiable.

Munyao’s elder brother, Brian Makau, said the family received news of the incident through their grandmother, Joyce Mwikali, who is also their guardian.

The siblings are total orphans, and the family questioned why students are allegedly being pulled from class to push the faulty vehicle.

“Why should learners be exposed to such risks?” Brian asked.

Attempts to reach the school principal for comment were unsuccessful. A visit to the institution found it closed for the mid-term break, with students already away.

Machakos Sub-county DCI Nzioka Singi confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing. The driver of the lorry — KAL 048U Isuzu water bowser — identified as Wilson Mbithi, was released on cash bail and is expected to face charges of causing death.

A postmortem examination has been scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026.

The incident has sparked renewed concern over student safety in schools, coming days after another case in the area where a student at Katoloni Secondary School reportedly died under unclear circumstances.