Nandi County, Kenya: Six people, including Emurua Dikirr Member of Parliament Johana Ng’eno, died on Saturday, 28 February 2026, when a helicopter crashed in Chepkiep, Mosop Sub-County, Nandi County in western Kenya. The aircraft went down in poor visibility, heavy rain and burned on impact, authorities confirmed, prompting a full investigation into the cause of the accident.
Initial reports from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and police indicate the helicopter, an Airbus H125 (Eurocopter AS350) registered 5Y-DSB, was en route from Endebes to Mosoriot when it encountered heavy rain and reduced visibility. The aircraft reportedly made an unscheduled landing near Chepkiep due to deteriorating conditions but crashed shortly after attempting to take off again in the late afternoon.
Police Chief Samuel Mukuusi confirmed the helicopter crash incident, citing bad weather as a possible cause. “The helicopter crashed minutes after takeoff, and all six people on board unfortunately lost their lives,” he said.
At approximately 4:30 pm local time, the helicopter lost stability and impacted the ground, bursting into flames on collision. The six occupants, including MP Ng’eno and the pilot, Capt. George was declared dead at the scene. Forensic teams and local police have been working to recover and preserve the remains for formal identification.
National and local authorities have now identified all six victims. In addition to Ng’eno and the pilot, the deceased include Robert Kipkoech Keter, Amos Rotich, Nicholas Kosgei, and Wycliffe Kiprotich Rono. The bodies were removed from the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) morgue in Eldoret and flown to Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi following procedures to begin post-mortem and family notifications.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority said its Aircraft Accident Investigation Department (AAID) has launched a formal inquiry to determine the circumstances leading to the crash. Investigators will assess flight data, aircraft maintenance records, weather conditions, and radio communications as part of the probe. Preliminary findings are expected once fieldwork and technical analysis are complete.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula directed that the victims’ bodies be transported to Nairobi and expressed deep condolences to the families. He described the incident as a national tragedy and called on Kenyans to stand in solidarity with the bereaved.
President William Ruto also mourned Ng’eno’s passing, acknowledging his service and leadership on behalf of his constituents in Emurua Dikirr.
Political figures across the spectrum have urged transparency in the ongoing investigation. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka called for a swift and thorough inquiry, while some political leaders have suggested an independent review to address public concerns surrounding the crash.
Ng’eno, 54, was serving his third consecutive term in Parliament, first elected in 2013 and re-elected in 2017 and 2022. He chaired the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works, and was instrumental in the passage of Kenya’s Affordable Housing Act, 2024.
The tragic helicopter accident has sparked national mourning and debate over aviation safety standards amid Kenya’s rainy season. Authorities have pledged to release findings once the investigation concludes, and families continue to be notified as formal processes unfold.
