Three people have been confirmed dead following a tragic accident at Kyenshama cattle market in Nyabirisirira Town Council, Mbarara District, on Friday afternoon.
The deceased, all vendors at the busy market, were reportedly struck by a Fuso truck, registration number UBL 438 A, which had arrived to collect cattle.
According to eyewitnesses, the driver lost control of the vehicle after it allegedly suffered brake failure, plowing into traders within the market.
“All three victims died instantly at the scene,” an eyewitness recounted, adding that the incident caused panic among traders and buyers who had gathered for the market day.
One other person sustained injuries in the crash and was rushed to a nearby clinic for medical attention.
Witnesses further alleged that the driver fled the scene immediately after the accident, leaving behind the wrecked vehicle.
The bodies of the deceased were later transported to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examination as authorities begin the process of identifying the victims.
Rwizi Region Police spokesperson SP Samson Kasasira confirmed the incident, saying investigations are underway.
“We have registered a fatal accident that occurred at Kyenshama cattle market, claiming three lives. Investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause of the crash and to identify the victims,” Kasasira said.
He added, “Efforts are also underway to trace the driver who fled the scene, and we urge anyone with information to cooperate with the police.”
Police have since called for calm among the public as inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash continue.
