RIP: Beautiful Photos Of Mombasa Bride Who Died In Salama Crash Days Before Her Wedding

The death of Veronica Ngandi, a woman from Mombasa who was due to get married in a week, has added to the grief following the deadly Salama road accident that claimed 17 Catholic pilgrims.

The victims were travelling from Mombasa to the Subukia Shrine in Nakuru County when their journey ended in a fatal crash in Makueni County.

Veronica, who was among those killed, had been making final preparations for her wedding. Her family had reportedly paid the dowry in Kitui and was arranging the remaining details ahead of the ceremony.

Speaking during a gathering to mourn the victims, Father Patrick Mainge, the parish priest of St Matthias Mulumba Catholic Church, said Veronica had been looking forward to completing her wedding plans after returning from the pilgrimage.

The priest explained that Veronica had told him her family had travelled to Kitui to fulfil the dowry requirements. She intended to return from Subukia with her partner before proceeding with the formalities of their marriage.

Her hopes of beginning married life were tragically cut short by the accident, leaving her relatives and friends devastated.

Father Mainge also remembered the cheerful atmosphere that surrounded the pilgrims before they set off. He said they were excited as he offered them his blessing before their journey to the Marian shrine.

Some of the pilgrims were preparing to visit Subukia for the first time, making the journey a significant spiritual experience. Sadly, the trip ended in disaster, leaving the community struggling to come to terms with the loss.

Another victim, known as Sarah, had reportedly spoken about her religious beliefs before leaving for the pilgrimage. She expressed her intention to fulfil her spiritual obligations and maintain peace with God.

The tragedy has left the Catholic community in Mombasa mourning as bereaved families begin preparations for the burials of their loved ones.

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Shariff Nassir joined mourners at a memorial Mass held at St Matthias Mulumba Catholic Church in Mikindani. He assured the affected families that the government would provide assistance and help cover burial expenses.

The final burial arrangements, including whether the victims will be laid to rest in Mombasa or returned to their respective home counties, are expected to be determined by the authorities and the families.

Newsdigital300 feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com