Authorities have concluded on-site investigations at the Nandi crash location where a Youth Aviation helicopter went down on Saturday, killing Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ng’eno and five others.
The focus now moves from field collection to detailed technical and forensic examinations in Nairobi as investigators work to uncover the chain of events that led to the fatal accident.
A specialized team combining homicide detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and aviation experts meticulously sifted through the wreckage on Monday.
Key components, including flight instruments and devices comparable to a black box, were recovered to provide data on the helicopter’s performance and conditions just before the crash.
Officials have confirmed that the debris from helicopter registration 5Y-DSB will undergo multiple analyses.
Portions will be examined locally by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Department, while selected parts will be sent abroad for advanced metallurgical tests and data retrieval.
Investigators aim to reconstruct the aircraft’s final movements to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Nandi County Criminal Investigations Officer Peter Ochieng said an official inquest has been launched and emphasized that the investigation will follow rigorous forensic and technical procedures.
He urged the public to avoid speculation and reassured that the probe is progressing methodically.
“We are committed to revealing every piece of information necessary to determine the cause of this accident. A full report will be ready within 30 days,” he said.
“We have collected all necessary samples. The scene has been fully cleared, and the debris will be transported to secure aviation facilities in Nairobi for detailed forensic examination. We are moving into the next stage, which involves examining every piece of recovered evidence in detail. The process is thorough and professional, and a comprehensive report will be ready within 30 days.”
The authorities stressed that the forensic and technical review will provide conclusive insights into the helicopter’s last moments and determine the factors that contributed to the deaths of all six passengers.