Couple Killed by Rolling Rocks in Buhweju After Tremors Shake Hillside Village

Buhweju District, Uganda — A couple in western Uganda has died after massive boulders rolled down a hillside and crashed into their home following earth tremors in the area.

The deceased have been identified as Deus Gumisiriza, 40, and his wife Evalyne Nyamwiza, residents of Kagorogoro Village in Nyakishana Sub-county, Buhweju District.

According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday when a series of tremors shook the hilly community.

The vibrations are believed to have dislodged two large rocks positioned uphill from the couple’s semi-permanent house. The boulders rolled downhill and struck the structure while the family was asleep.

The couple died instantly, authorities said.Six children who were inside the house at the time survived the ordeal unharmed, though they were left traumatized by the sudden loss of their parents.

Police officers responded to the scene and documented the incident before handing over the bodies to relatives for burial arrangements.

The case is being investigated by the Uganda Police Force.Preliminary findings suggest that excavation activities near the base of the rocks may have weakened their stability.

Investigators noted signs of digging around the hillside, raising concerns that human activity could have contributed to the fatal rockfall when the tremors struck.

Local authorities have since cautioned residents living in mountainous and hilly areas to avoid destabilizing large rocks through excavation or farming practices that may weaken natural support systems.

Experts warn that tremors, heavy rainfall, and unchecked land activity can significantly increase the risk of landslides and rolling debris.

The tragedy has reignited concerns over environmental safety in hillside communities, where shifting terrain and unregulated excavation continue to pose dangers to residents.Investigations into the exact cause of the tremors and the extent of excavation activity are ongoing.