A fatal train accident occurred in Kampala, Uganda, on Friday, December 19, 2025, resulting in the tragic death of American national Savannah Gardner. The incident took place at approximately 5:37 PM at the Wankoko level crossing in Bugolobi. It involved a Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) Commuter Train Service, which was travelling from Kampala to Namanve, and a private motor vehicle, a Mitsubishi Pajero with registration number UBF 582X.

According to a statement from URC, preliminary reports indicate that the level crossing was being manned by staff from both the Railways Police and URC, in strict adherence to established safety guidelines. Traffic on all sides of the level crossing, including Bugolobi, Port Bell road, and 3rd Street, had reportedly come to a complete stop to allow the train to pass safely. However, the driver of the Pajero, identified as Savannah Gardner, an American national, allegedly attempted to cross the track, leading to a collision with the oncoming train.

Savannah Gardner, who was a missionary in Uganda and a graduate of West Coast Baptist College, died instantly from the collision. Her husband, Matthew Gardner, sustained internal injuries and is currently hospitalized, while their two young sons, Jedidiah (age 4) and Mason (1 year old), were reported to be completely unharmed. The family had been traveling on one of Kampala's main streets when the accident occurred.

Following the tragic event, URC has initiated internal investigations and is fully cooperating with investigators from the Uganda Police Force to determine the precise circumstances of what transpired. Earlier, a social media post had circulated, appealing for prayers and financial support for the Gardner family. The post also noted that a large group of BIMI Africa missionaries were on-site, providing assistance to the family during this difficult time, and expressed gratitude that the children were safe while calling for prayers for Matthew's swift recovery.