Uganda Railways Corporation has released details about a deadly train crash that happened on Friday evening in Bugolobi, which claimed the life of an American citizen, Savannah Gardner.
In a statement, URC explained what happened at the Wankoko railway crossing during the evening commuter service.
” A fatal accident occurred on the evening of Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Wankoko level crossing in Bugolobi. The incident, which took place at approximately 5:37 PM, involved our evening Commuter Train Service travelling from Kampala to Namanve and a private motor vehicle, a Mitsubishi Pajero with registration number UBF 582X.”
According to URC, the crossing was under proper control at the time of the accident. Officers from the Railways Police and URC staff were present, and traffic had been stopped on all connecting roads, including Bugolobi, Port Bell Road, and 3rd Street, to allow the train to pass.
Despite these measures, the driver of the vehicle tried to cross the railway line while the train was approaching. “However, the driver of the Pajero, an American national, attempted to cross the track, resulting in a collision with the oncoming train. URC has instituted internal investigations and is fully cooperating with Uganda Police Force investigators to find out what exactly happened.”
Following the crash, messages began circulating on social media asking people to pray and offer financial help to the Gardner family. Savannah and her husband, Matthew Gardner, are missionaries living in Uganda.
One message described the tragic moment and the condition of the family after the crash.
“Today, as the Gardners were travelling on one of the main streets in Kampala, a train crossed the road and hit their vehicle. Savannah went to Heaven instantly. The two sons are completely fine. Matthew sustained internal injuries and is presently in the hospital. Please pray for Matthew to heal quickly and for the two sons, Jedidiah (age 4) and Mason (1 year old). We praise the Lord that there is a large group of BIMI Africa missionaries there who are assisting them at this time.”
Investigations into the incident are still ongoing as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash.