This archive report was first published on 5 September 2019.
On a Thursday morning in September 2019, a quick-thinking driver saved the day at Rwika Shopping Centre in Mbeere South, Embu County. James Mugo Kangara, the driver, had just offloaded petrol at the pump station when he noticed a fire coming from the lower part of the tanker.
Despite the danger, Kangara sprang into action, first trying to disconnect the pipes on the tanker but realizing it was futile. He then decided to drive the tanker away from the shopping centre and nearby residential houses.
“I managed to drive the burning tanker away from the shops and residential houses. I managed to jump out just in time before the tanker burst into flames and was reduced to a shell,” Kangara said, recounting his heroic act.
Thanks to Kangara's bravery, there were no injuries or casualties. The fire was eventually put out by the police and fire brigade, who arrived at the scene later.
Area chief Jane Njoki Kaina praised Kangara's quick and selfless action, saying it had averted a potential disaster. Investigations into the cause of the fire were also launched by the police.
