The mourners were traveling to Mombasa after attending a funeral in Mghambonyi when the accident happened Saturday, April 15 night, police said.
The vehicle had 34 adult passengers and an unknown number of children, police confirmed.
Mwatate sub-county police commander Morris Okul said the bus’ brakes failed and as a result landed on a slope, causing the death of the passengers.
Okul said police have begun investigations into the accident.
The officers urged drivers who are not familiar with the route to be more careful and desist from speeding.
Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome said 10 people died on the spot in the 8 pm grisly accident.
He said preliminary findings show the driver of the bus engaged free gear making it difficult for him to control the bus.
“We have to tell drivers to be careful and avoid engaging free gear to save on fuel. Owners have to ensure drivers have enough sleep,” he said.
He added 17 people were seriously injured, and one adult was slightly injured.
Three children and one infant are among the seriously injured.
Efforts were Sunday underway to retrieve the extensively damaged vehicle.
So far five bodies have been positively identified.
The Josa area is considered a black spot and has claimed many lives of people traveling along the meandering road.
In November last year, a school bus ferrying mourners from Mombasa rolled into the area killing several people.
The bus was reportedly carrying teachers from a Mombasa-based school who had gone to attend the burial of their colleague.
Accidents are common in the country and up to 3,000 people die yearly in similar incidents.
