Rockfall triggered by tremors kills sleeping couple in Buhweju
Preliminary investigations indicate that earth tremors were felt in the area shortly before the fatal incident.
Residents survey the aftermath of the deadly rockfall in Kogorogoro village that killed a couple inside their house. Courtesy Photo
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Two huge stones dislodged from a hill overlooking Kogorogoro village in Buhweju district crashed through the roof of a semi-permanent house shortly after midnight, killing a husband and wife as they slept.
The tragic incident occurred on February 22, 2026, at about midnight in Kogorogoro village, Mutungo parish, Nyakishana subcounty, Buhweju district.
According to police, the deceased have been identified as 40-year-old Deus Gumisiriza and his wife, Evelyne Nyamwiza, both residents of the area.
The two rocks that reportedly ended the lives of the couple. Courtesy Photo
Preliminary investigations indicate that earth tremors were felt in the area shortly before the fatal incident.
Territorial police in Buhweju responded promptly to the scene and found the victims already lifeless. The scene was processed and documented in accordance with standard operating procedures.
“Preliminary findings indicate that following earth tremors in the area, two large stones rolled down from a nearby hill into the valley and crashed through the roof of the couple’s semi-permanent house, landing on their bed and killing them instantly while they were asleep,” said Apollo Tayebwa, the regional police public relations officer for Greater Bushenyi.
Fortunately, the couple’s six children, who were also inside the house at the time of the incident, survived unhurt.
Post-mortem examinations revealed that Nyamwiza sustained fatal chest injuries, while Gumisiriza suffered severe abdominal injuries and an open compound fracture of the left arm.
Further findings at the scene revealed that the stones had previously been interfered with due to digging activities around them. Investigators believe this interference loosened the rocks, making them more susceptible to rolling downhill during tremors.
“The bodies were handed over to the relatives for burial as investigations into the matter continue. We extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved family and caution the general public, especially residents living in hilly and mountainous areas, to avoid destabilising large rocks and to remain vigilant during periods of earthquakes and heavy rains,” Tayebwa said.