4 killed, 13 injured in stampede during Kenya's heroes day celebrations

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) – Four people were killed and 13 others were injured in a stampede on Friday during national heroes day celebrations in the western Kenyan city of Kericho, police said.

The stampede occurred when some people attempted to enter the Green Stadium, where thousands of people had gathered to celebrate "Mashujaa Day."

The injured were rushed to Kericho County Referral Hospital, where four people died, police said in a statement, adding that all were women whose identities have yet to be determined.

Thirteen people were injured, including three police officers.

Mashujaa Day is a national holiday in Kenya observed on Oct. 20 to honor all those who contributed to Kenya's independence struggle.

The Kenyan government has expressed condolences to the victims' families.

The Green Stadium has a seating capacity of 10,000 people.