Eight people, including NBS TV journalist Julius Kitone, tragically died in a fatal road accident on Friday evening along the Mbarara–Lyantonde Highway in Kiruhura District, Uganda. The accident involved a white Toyota Hiace taxi (UBQ 016U) and a Mercedes-Benz Actros trailer (KDQ 668L / ZH 5133), which collided head-on after the taxi attempted to overtake at a sharp corner.

According to Rwizi Region Police spokesperson Samson Kasasira, preliminary investigations indicate that reckless driving and overspeeding by both vehicles caused the crash. Safari Mugyenyi, Chairperson of Sanga Town Council, said the taxi appeared to lose control before hitting the trailer. First responders were able to retrieve four bodies, while the other four victims remained trapped in the wreckage.

One survivor, identified only as Sam, sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. Residents described the stretch near Sanga Town as dangerous, noting that drivers often accelerate after passing road humps, making the area prone to serious accidents.

Julius Kitone, who worked for NBS TV (Next Media) for several years, was remembered as a hardworking and dedicated journalist, passionate about reporting and storytelling. His death, along with seven others, has left families and the media community grieving the tragic loss of life in Uganda’s latest highway accident.

Authorities are continuing efforts to identify all victims and are urging motorists to exercise caution on the Mbarara–Lyantonde Highway to prevent further road accidents.