An eyewitness in Gilgil has described the traumatic moments during the Utumishi Girls Academy dorm fire, detailing how first responders faced a locked exit door that hindered rescue efforts.

Stephen Muiruri arrived at the scene as a distress call went out, only to find that the dormitory exit had been locked from the outside, complicating attempts to evacuate students.Some girls managed to escape by jumping through windows, though not without injuries.

Muiruri witnessed one girl fall while attempting to escape and described the scene of two girls who died while embracing in a corner, unable to leave the burning building.

Investigations indicate a planned arson by some Form 3 students with grievances against administration; eight students have been arrested, along with two teachers who reportedly ignored warning tips.Education Secretary Ogamba stated that the two teachers and the school principal would face disciplinary action.The article also notes ongoing reporting on related details and broader coverage of the incident.The tragedy has raised questions about dormitory safety, supervision, and timely response to emergencies in educational institutions.