Two people died on the spot after a cement-laden lorry veered off the Chiakariga–Marimanti road and plunged into River Thingithû in Tharaka South on Tuesday.
The accident occurred earlier in the day when the truck, which was heading towards Marimanti, reportedly lost control before crashing into the river under unclear circumstances.
Two other occupants of the vehicle survived the crash with injuries and were rushed to Marimanti Hospital for treatment.
The incident cast a sombre mood across the area as residents joined police officers and emergency responders in rescue efforts at the scene.
Authorities have launched investigations into the cause of the accident, amid growing concerns over the safety of the bridge where the crash occurred.
Residents said the narrow bridge lacks guardrails, making it hazardous for motorists, particularly heavy commercial vehicles using the busy route.
The bodies of the deceased were later retrieved from the wreckage and moved to the Marimanti Hospital mortuary pending identification and postmortem examinations.
Police urged motorists to exercise caution while using the route as investigations into the deadly crash continue.
