NAIROBI, Kenya — A light aircraft experienced a crash landing in Malindi County on Friday, leading to the tragic deaths of three individuals on the ground, according to local police authorities.

Among the deceased was a motorcycle taxi driver, who lost his life when the plane ignited upon impact in the town of Kwachocha along the Malindi-Mombasa highway, as stated by Sub-County Police Commander Lucky Joski Mudavadi.

In addition, a motorcycle rider and a female passenger were also fatalities after they were struck by debris from the plane, specifically parts from its wings and tail, as it collided with a building during the crash.

Onboard the aircraft were a pilot and two students, who managed to escape the plane before it fully crashed. They are currently receiving medical attention for their injuries. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances that led to this unfortunate accident.

The Kwachocha area is situated in proximity to Malindi airport, and local residents are involved in legal disputes concerning the government’s intentions to expand the airport while compensation cases for land remain unresolved.

A county assembly representative, Rashid Odhiambo, commented to the press that this incident highlights the critical need for heightened safety measures in the vicinity of the airport. “It’s imperative for those managing the airport to enforce safety protocols in the surrounding areas, not only within the airport grounds,” he asserted.