Wife and passenger survive; 13 university students hospitalized after multi-vehicle collision
Renowned televangelist Bishop Gilbert Deya died in a road crash on Tuesday afternoon along the Kisumu–Bondo highway near Namba Kapiyo.
Police confirmed the fatal collision involved three vehicles: a Toyota Noah driven by Deya, a Moi University bus carrying students, and a Siaya County government car. Deya, 68, was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to Nyanza Regional Traffic Enforcement Officer Peter Maina, the crash occurred when Deya’s vehicle veered out of its lane and into the path of the university bus. The bus driver swerved to avoid a direct hit, causing the bus to overturn before Deya’s car struck the county vehicle.
“Deya died on the spot. Two passengers in his vehicle his wife and another woman suffered minor injuries,” Maina stated during a police briefing in Kisumu.
Emergency services responded quickly, transporting 13 injured students to Kombewa Sub-County Hospital. Three students were later referred to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital in Kisumu for further treatment. Doctors at Kombewa confirmed the rest were treated for less severe injuries and discharged.
The body of Bishop Deya was taken to the Kombewa mortuary. His wife remains under observation but is reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances of the crash. Police are reviewing traffic camera footage and recording statements from survivors and witnesses.
Bishop Gilbert Deya became a national figure in the early 2000s following the highly publicized “miracle babies” controversy. The claims, which were later discredited, led to criminal investigations and his extradition from the United Kingdom to face child trafficking charges in Kenya. Despite facing legal battles, Deya continued preaching through his ministry until his death.
This accident marks the end of a controversial and complex public life that spanned decades. Police expect to release a full report once investigations conclude.
