Two people have died and six others were injured after a vehicle in the Tour du Rwanda caravan veered off the road and struck spectators during Stage 1 of the race in Gabiro on Sunday.

In a public notice issued on February 22, the race management confirmed the fatal accident, saying the incident occurred in the Gabiro area as the stage was underway. According to the statement, a caravan vehicle left the roadway and hit several members of the public who had gathered to watch the competition.

“Sadly, two people lost their lives and six others were injured,” the organisers said, adding that the injured are currently receiving medical care and that officials are closely monitoring their condition.

The Rwanda National Police has launched investigations into the cause of the crash. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding what led the vehicle to veer off the road.

Tour du Rwanda is one of Africa’s most prominent cycling events, attracting international teams and large crowds of spectators along its routes each year. The race caravan which typically includes support vehicles, officials and sponsors  travels ahead of and alongside the cyclists.

In their statement, the organisers extended “sincere condolences to the families affected” and reiterated their commitment to public safety.

The tragedy casts a sombre shadow over the opening stage of the competition, as questions are raised over safety measures surrounding race convoys and crowd management.

Further updates are expected as investigations continue.