A risky overtaking attempt turned fatal on Monday along the busy Machakos-Kangundo road, leaving three people dead and several others injured following a horrific head-on collision between an overloaded motorcycle and a matatu.

The mid-day crash occurred near the Mutituni market area as the motorcycle, carrying four pillion passengers, was heading toward Machakos town.

Eyewitness reports indicate the rider was attempting to overtake another vehicle when they slammed directly into an oncoming matatu traveling in the Kangundo direction.

Three of the passengers on the motorcycle succumbed to their injuries on the spot due to the impact of the crash.

Emergency response teams rushed the surviving injured victims to Machakos Level Five Hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.

Local authorities arrived at the scene shortly after to control traffic and clear the wreckage, with police launching investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal maneuver.