Controversial Preacher Gilbert Deya Dies in Tragic Road Crash; 30 Students Injured

Renowned televangelist Bishop Gilbert Deya, famously known for his involvement in the “miracle babies” controversy, has died in a horrific road accident on the Kisumu–Bondo highway. The Tuesday evening crash left at least 30 students from Moi University nursing injuries, with 15 of them reportedly in critical condition. 

According to Nyanza Region Traffic Commander Peter Maina, the accident occurred when Bishop Deya, driving a Toyota Noah from Kisian toward Bondo, lost control and collided head-on with a Moi University school bus. In a tragic sequence, the bus swerved to avoid further impact, only to be rammed from behind by a Toyota Fortuner belonging to the Siaya County Government. 

Police reports confirm that Deya was accompanied by two passengers in the car, one of whom is believed to be his wife. While the bishop died on the spot, the injured, including the university students, were rushed to various hospitals across Kisumu and Siaya counties. The wreckage has been towed to a nearby police station as investigations continue to determine the exact cause of the crash. 

Deya’s body was taken to Kombewa Sub-County Hospital Mortuary. 

Gilbert Deya’s name became synonymous with controversy in the early 2000s, following his dramatic rise and fall from grace. The Kenyan-born preacher moved to the United Kingdom, where he established evangelical ministries in London and Liverpool. He gained massive attention for claiming that women who were infertile, or even postmenopausal, could conceive through the power of prayer in his church. 

These so-called “miracle babies,” however, turned into a national and international scandal. Investigations revealed connections to child trafficking operations, leading to Deya’s extradition to Kenya and a lengthy legal battle. 

Despite spending years in and out of court, Deya was acquitted in July 2023 after a judge ruled that the prosecution had failed to present sufficient evidence in five child theft charges. His acquittal, though freeing him legally, did little to erase the shadow of doubt that had long trailed his ministry. 

Deya’s death has sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans and religious followers. While some mourn the passing of a man they viewed as a spiritual healer, others recall the deep scars left by the scandal that rocked not only his ministry but also Kenya’s legal and religious communities. 

Church members from his former congregations in both the UK and Kenya have begun to share tributes online, highlighting his preaching prowess and dedication to ministry. However, critics remain firm in questioning the legitimacy of his past practices. 

Traffic authorities are expected to release a full report once investigations conclude. Meanwhile, questions are being raised about road safety and the condition of public service vehicles on busy highways like Kisumu–Bondo. 

As Kenya grapples with this high-profile road tragedy, the nation remembers a preacher who inspired, divided, and remained controversial to the very end.