NAIROBI, Kenya

The death toll in a truck crash in Western Kenya rose to 52, according to local authorities.

"So far, we have 45 bodies in the hospital mortuary, and the rescue operation is still ongoing," Collins Kipkoech, a doctor at the hospital in Kericho county, told reporters late on Friday after a truck crashed into a bustling market in the Londiani area before authorities announced that seven more bodies had been recovered.

Regional police chief Tom Odera confirmed the deaths while expressing concern that the toll may rise.

Odera emphasized the challenge of reaching bodies trapped under the truck's trailer.

Accidents are common on Kenya's roads and highways, often resulting in loss of life.

The accident occurred at approximately 6.30 p.m. local time (1530GMT). Local authorities and the community continue rescue efforts.