16 Students Dead, 79 Injured as Fire Ravages Dormitory in Kenya School; Eight Students Detained

At least 16 students have died and 79 others sustained injuries after a devastating dormitory fire swept through Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, in Kenya.

Authorities said the blaze broke out in the night and rapidly spread across the upper floor of a crowded dormitory block, trapping many students inside before emergency responders could bring the situation under control. The cause of the fire has not yet been officially determined, as investigations continue.

Police have since arrested eight students described as persons of interest in connection with the incident. Officials say the detained students are being questioned to establish whether the fire was accidental or the result of foul play.

The tragedy has left the school community in shock, with emergency teams and education authorities working to support survivors and coordinate medical care for the injured. Gilgil remains at the center of ongoing investigations as authorities seek answers to how the deadly incident occurred.