PH
Bungoma – A form one student at Friends School Kamusinga in Kimilili constituency, Bungoma County, drowned in a swimming pool Monday while training for a major competition.
Dennis Mutiso from Nairobi County had reported to the institution barely three weeks ago and was a star swimmer who had been selected to represent the school in the regional swimming competitions in April.
Addressing the press in his office Tuesday, Friends School Kamusinga Principal, Edwin Namachanja confirmed that the student died while battling to put back on his costume that had come off as he swam towards the deep end of the pool.
“His swimming trunks came off and he choked while trying to wear it back, sinking to the bottom of the pool. Efforts by the swimming master to help the victim failed,” the Principal said.
Namachanja said the tragedy was not expected because the student was an excellent swimmer who was to represent the institution in a swimming competition.
“It’s unfortunate that the tragedy took place. As a school, we are sad and ask the family of the deceased to bear with us,” he said.
Kimilili sub County Deputy OCPD, Peter Chesire said they are investigating the incident.
“Efforts to resuscitate him at Kimilili district hospital did not bear any fruit and he succumbed while the doctors were working on him. His body is being preserved at Dreamland house in Kimilili,” he said.
Bungoma County director of education, Charles Anyika who visited the school asked the Principal and teachers to always be alert and never allow students to go swimming without the watchful eye of the swimming instructor.
