Wangila, a dedicated volunteer with years of experience in high-risk water rescues, died on March 3, 2026, following efforts to retrieve a 17-year-old boy swept away by the turbulent waters near Nyayo Highrise Estate along Mbagathi Road.
The incident occurred on February 28, when the Grade 9 student and a friend attempted to cross the river, which had risen sharply due to heavy rains in late February.
The incident occurred on February 28, when the Grade 9 student and a friend attempted to cross the river, which had risen sharply due to heavy rains in late February.
Witnesses reported that the strong currents overwhelmed the boy, pulling him toward a nearby waterfall before he disappeared under the water.
His companion, unable to save him, raised the alarm, prompting an urgent response from local authorities and the Kenya Red Cross.
Samuel Wangila was among several divers deployed to recover the boy’s body. Despite his extensive training and experience in water rescues, the fast-moving waters, low visibility, and debris in the river created life-threatening conditions.
Samuel Wangila was among several divers deployed to recover the boy’s body. Despite his extensive training and experience in water rescues, the fast-moving waters, low visibility, and debris in the river created life-threatening conditions.
The Red Cross issued a statement mourning his death, highlighting his commitment and dedication as one of the organization’s most skilled Aqua Rescue volunteers.
“This is a tragic loss for our team,” the Kenya Red Cross said, noting that Wangila had repeatedly risked his life to save others.
“This is a tragic loss for our team,” the Kenya Red Cross said, noting that Wangila had repeatedly risked his life to save others.
“His bravery and service to the community will always be remembered.”
The tragedy has drawn attention to the dangers posed by swollen rivers, even for trained rescuers. The Kenya Meteorological Department had previously warned that flooded rivers can sweep away individuals within seconds, regardless of age or physical strength.
The tragedy has drawn attention to the dangers posed by swollen rivers, even for trained rescuers. The Kenya Meteorological Department had previously warned that flooded rivers can sweep away individuals within seconds, regardless of age or physical strength.
This incident underscores the urgent need for public awareness and caution during periods of heavy rainfall.
The Mbagathi River incident follows another fatal event in Narok County, where two men went missing after their vehicle was swept away at Mararianta Bridge.
The Mbagathi River incident follows another fatal event in Narok County, where two men went missing after their vehicle was swept away at Mararianta Bridge.
Residents have criticized local authorities for neglecting infrastructure maintenance, calling for urgent rehabilitation of bridges and river crossings to prevent further loss of life.
As investigations continue, the Red Cross and local officials urge the public to exercise extreme caution near swollen rivers and flood-prone areas.
As investigations continue, the Red Cross and local officials urge the public to exercise extreme caution near swollen rivers and flood-prone areas.
Samuel Wangila’s death serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by rescue personnel and the importance of community vigilance during natural disasters.
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Kenya