Tragedy Strikes: Death Toll Rises to 21 in Endarasha Hillside Academy Dormitory Fire, 17 Students Still Missing.

The number of students who died from the burnt dormitory at Endarasha Hillside Academy school in Nyeri County has now increased from 14 to 21 as the government stated on Saturday 7, on a press brief held at the school.

19 bodies were found in the scene of the incident as two others died in the hospital after severe injuries while receiving their treatment.

The burnt dormitory had 156 pupils of age nine to thirteen years who were sleeping when the incident occurred at around 11pm.

It is said that 17 students are missing as out of 156 students, 139 students had now been accounted for either at home or in the hospital. The government is now asking for anyone who might know the whereabouts of these 17 pupils to report to school.

“It is a catastrophe beyond our imagination, It is truly devastating for the nation to lose such a number of young and promising Kenyans. Our hearts are heavy,” Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said.

The cause of the fire is yet to be established as investigations are still ongoing but the police vowed that anyone who will be found guilty will have to face the law.

Some bodies were burnt to ashes and cannot be recognized. Postmortem will begin on Tuesday as stated by the Chief government pathologist Johansen Oduor.

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Igonga has released a statement asking the police to do investigations and determine the cause of the fire.

“Assess whether or not the tragedy may have resulted from negligence and/or recklessness of any responsibility holders,” his statement said.

He also added that anyone who will be found guilty of the incident will be taken through the due process of a criminal trial.

“Any person found culpable towards the fire tragedy shall be expediently taken through the due process of a criminal trial.”

Initial reports indicated that the dormitory was overcrowded which violated the required safety standards as also similar incidents had happened before.

President William Ruto has declared that as from Monday there will be three days of national mourning for the young souls that were lost.

Pope Francis also expressed his condolences to the families affected. “Spiritual closeness to all who are suffering the effects of this calamity, especially the injured and the families who grieve,” he stated.

Parents and guardians have been at the school waiting to hear news of their loved ones. Most of then have found their sons as others are still waiting for positive feedback.