Cameraman killed in Jamhuri autocross tragedy laid to rest

Fallen cameraman Anthony Ndungu Macharia was laid to rest in a sombre ceremony in his home village in Kieni, Karatina in Nyeri County attended by hundreds of mourners among them friends, relatives as well as his media colleagues.

The photo journalists known as Antonio Vaticano, 27, was eulogised for the strength, courage and determination he displayed in his short lived career that was tragically cut short last Saturday from injuries sustained after he was hit by a race car at Nairobi’s Jamhuri Racetrack.

“He was a promising, hardworking, young entrepreneur. The creative artist was heading far in creative photography. It is a great loss to the family, community and the nation,” Elijah Nguyo, his teacher at Kanjuri High School who attended the ceremony told Citizen Digital.

His classmates also shared their condolences describing the wonderful memories they shared with the cameraman who was covering the sixth round of the national autocross championship.

“Vaticano was such a nice person a soul to behold. I remember the many times I ran to him for advice for counsel when I needed someone to listen to me. I remember our attachment at Kiss TV how he would call me to his desk and make me listen to some songs.

“He was such a good friend to me. There are so many memories written in my heart about him. I have lost a dear friend and it hurts so much. Gone too soon dear. Until we meet again. It is well,” Cindy Akinyi mourned.

Other friends who missed an opportunity to celebrate the final journey at his home posted their tributes on social media platforms.

“Today you will be laid to rest, the fact that you died in Christ gives us hope that one day we shall see you. Though it pains we let you go. We loved you but God loved you so much. Fare thee well my friend, fare thee well until we meet again,” Prince Kelvin wrote on his Facebook timeline.

“Tonie, Rest in Peace brother. As we lay you down to rest today, we believe that you are in safe hands with the angels. We will all miss you and know that with the angels there you are fine and safe, Tony safiri salama sote tuko nyuma (safe journey and we are all behind).

“In the sweet, bye and bye, we shall meet on that beautiful shore.

Fare Thee Well Tonie. #Till We Meet Again #Rest In Peace #Final Journey,” Regina Wamuyu posted.