Worker Killed, Another Injured in Wall Collapse During Demolition in Machakos

MACHACKOS, Kenya – One person has died and another sustained serious injuries following the collapse of a wall during a house demolition in Isyukoni Village, Masinga Sub-county.

The tragic incident occurred on Friday as three men were reportedly involved in the demolition exercise. According to area Assistant Chief Timothy Kivati, the wall, which had been significantly weakened, suddenly gave way, trapping two of the workers beneath the rubble.

“One of the men died on the spot while the other suffered serious injuries and was rushed to Matuu Level Four Hospital,” Kivati said.

The body of the deceased has been taken to Mbaku Funeral Home in Matuu for preservation and postmortem examination.

Authorities have since launched investigations to determine the cause of the collapse. The probe will also assess whether the demolition exercise adhered to safety protocols and whether the workers were equipped with adequate protective gear.

“We are working with relevant departments to establish if there was negligence or non-compliance with safety guidelines during the demolition,” the Assistant Chief added.

The incident has sparked concern among residents over the enforcement of construction and demolition safety standards in rural areas. Many have called on county officials and regulatory bodies to ensure that all such activities are carried out under proper supervision and with adherence to occupational safety laws.

This comes amid a spate of construction-related accidents across the country, raising urgent questions about oversight and the need for stricter enforcement of building codes and safety measures.

In other news, police are investigating a shooting incident during the impeachment of Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo, while 36 youths were charged in Kirinyaga over protests on June 25. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has also written to the Police IG and Interior CS Murkomen after his security detail was withdrawn.