The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to start identifying the victims of the Hillside Endarasha Primary School fire toda , following the devastating blaze that claimed 21 lives and left 70 students missing.

The devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in Nyeri County, central Kenya, on Thursday night resulted in the deaths of 21 children. The blaze, which broke out in the dormitory housing over 150 boys aged 10 to 14, has left 70 others unaccounted for. Emergency responders recovered 19 bodies from the scene, while two additional students succumbed to injuries in hospital.

Nyeri County Commissioner Pius Murugu announced that the bodies, currently at Naromoru Level 4 Hospital, are severely burnt and beyond recognition, making the process challenging and lengthy.

“Many students are still missing, but the identification will begin today at Naromoru. We anticipate a prolonged process and hope to conclude it as soon as possible,” Murugu stated.

Murugu also announced that the government will cover all medical expenses for students currently hospitalized and will manage the arrangements for the deceased. Additionally, he noted that a meeting with the Ministry of Education will be held to expedite the reopening of the school, as national exams are scheduled for this term.

“While there will be a delay in resuming boarding facilities, day classes will continue as we work on restoring the boarding operations,” he added.

In response to the tragedy, Pope Francis sent a heartfelt message of condolence through Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. The Pope expressed his deep sadness and spiritual closeness to the victims’ families and those affected by the fire. He commended the souls of the deceased to the mercy of God and offered prayers for the ongoing efforts of civil authorities.

President William Ruto declared a three-day national mourning period, with flags across Kenya to be flown at half-mast from September 9 to September 11, 2024. The President expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, noting the profound loss and directing that the Kenyan and East African Community (EAC) flags be lowered throughout the mourning period.