A girl in Baringo Central died after an unidentified vehicle ran over her near Seretunin junction along Kabarnet-Kabartonjo Road.
The vehicle was heading towards Kabartonjo from Kabarnet, according to Seretunin Chief Patrick Kiprop.
The driver, who was suspected to have been drunk, is reported to have escaped by speeding after knocking the girl on Tuesday afternoon, said Kiprop, who spoke to KNA on the phone.
The young girl was attempting to cross the road on her way to church, where she was to join fellow Sunday school children to make final rehearsals for songs and drama to be presented last evening during an overnight vigil of welcoming the birth of Jesus Christ, he said.
“This is a very unfortunate incident because everyone is longing to celebrate Christmas happily but you see now, we have lost a young Kenyan just because of an irresponsible motorist,” the chief said.
Kiprop appealed to all road users, especially motorists, to exercise caution and avoid driving while under the influence of any drug or alcohol that will inhibit their judgement as they drive or ride along the roads during this busy festive season.
The administrator urged parents and guardians to closely monitor and guide children on how to conduct themselves to remain safe during this festive season.
“It is the prayer of every person to witness celebration both the birth of Jesus and also usher in of the New Year and therefore everybody must be mindful of other people’s safety and welfare,” said Kiprop.
The Seretunin Chief, however, said that the whereabouts of the car and the runaway driver remain unknown, but police are already investigating the incident.
Meanwhile, the body of the girl was taken to the Baringo County Referral Hospital mortuary.