At least 16 students have died after a devastating fire swept through a dormitory at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, Kenya, in a tragedy that has sent shockwaves across the country.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, the fire is believed to have broken out at around 1 a.m. on Thursday and was officially reported at approximately 3:30 a.m.

Dozens of students sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals after the pre-dawn blaze engulfed the crowded dormitory, which reportedly housed more than 200 learners.

Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the school following the incident. Initial reports indicated that at least 15 students were feared dead, but police later confirmed that the death toll had risen to approximately 16.

Authorities said several injured students were taken to various medical facilities with injuries of varying severity. Most are reported to be in stable condition.

In a statement, the Kenya Red Cross said it had mobilized emergency personnel to support rescue and relief efforts.

“Following a fire incident reported at around 3:30 a.m. at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County, Kenya Red Cross responded to support the ongoing emergency response,” the organization said.

The humanitarian agency added that its first responders, EMS Kenya ambulance crews, and psychosocial support teams were on the ground assisting affected students alongside other emergency responders and government authorities.

Rescue and response operations remain ongoing as officials continue to assess the situation and provide support to students and families affected by the disaster.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the fire, and investigations are currently underway.

Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the entire school community.

“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil,” Ruto said in a statement on Thursday.

“No words can truly ease the pain of losing young lives filled with promise, hope, and dreams for the future,” he added.

The President said the government’s immediate priority was rescuing those affected, ensuring medical treatment for the injured, and providing support to grieving families.

“Our immediate attention is focused on the rescue of those affected, the treatment of the injured, and support for their families, while investigations continue into the cause of the fire. As a nation, we mourn with the parents, guardians, teachers, and fellow students who are enduring this unimaginable tragedy,” the statement read.