A devastating fuel tank explosion that occurred along the Mbarara-Kabale highway in Kyanamira sub-county, Kabale district on Saturday left one person dead and another seriously injured.

The Nissan semi-trailer tanker was traveling from Kampala to Kabale town when it overturned at Kyanamira corner and burst into flames.

Mr Elly Maate, police spokesperson for the Kigezi region, says Geoffrey Onyango, 34, the Kenyan driver, managed to escape from the vehicle but suffered serious burns as he tried to flee. He was rushed to Kabale Regional Referral Hospital in critical condition.

“Unfortunately, the return man was burnt to ashes, but the driver sustained injuries and is currently admitted at Kabale referral hospital for treatment,” he said.

Mr Maate identified the deceased as 20-year-old Rogers Onyango, also a Kenyan national, who was unable to escape from the burning vehicle. His remains were taken to Kabale Hospital mortuary for autopsy. Police are working to liaise with Kenyan authorities and the victims’ families.

“Our police fire department responded quickly and brought the fire under control before it caused more damage to the neighborhood,” he said.

The incident blocked traffic for about three hours.

This incident comes just days after another fuel tanker caught fire in Kigoogwa town, about 22 kilometers from Kampala city, claiming at least 15 lives.