Sad Moments As Two People Dies as Chaos Erupt During a Christmas Gifting Event Organized By Governor in His Home

A Christmas charity event at the home of Busia Governor Paul Otuoma ended in tragedy after two people died in a stampede as residents scrambled for food and gifts on December 23.

The victims were identified as an 81-year-old woman and a 67-year-old man living with disabilities. Several other residents sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital for treatment.

Families of the deceased are now demanding thorough investigations, saying the incident has left them devastated during what was meant to be a season of joy.

According to witnesses, the event turned chaotic when the crowd surged forward in an effort to access the food items being distributed.

In the confusion, people were pushed to the ground, triggering the deadly stampede.

Rispa Anyango, daughter of the elderly woman who died, recounted the painful moments that led to her mother’s death.

She said her mother fell during the scramble and was trampled on by other attendees. By the time family members managed to reach her, she was no longer breathing.

The family of the second victim also narrated a similar ordeal.

Afrikanus Wanyama, brother to the 67-year-old man, said his sibling, who was in a wheelchair, was pushed over when the situation spiralled out of control.

Both families further alleged that there were attempts to move the bodies from the governor’s residence before police arrived.

However, they refused, insisting that law enforcement officers must document the incident before any removal could take place.

The bodies were later transferred to the Busia County Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary, where post-mortem examinations are expected to be conducted.

Those injured in the stampede are currently receiving treatment at the same facility.

Following the incident, members of the Busia County Executive visited the injured victims at the hospital.

Meanwhile, grieving families have appealed to the government to intervene, investigate the incident thoroughly, and support them as they mourn their loved ones during the Christmas period.