A truck and a school minibus collided in South Africa’s Gauteng province on Monday, killing at least 13 children, authorities said. Preliminary reports indicated at least 11 schoolchildren died at the scene, while two others later died in the hospital.
What authorities say happened
Officials said the private vehicle was transporting students to various primary schools and high schools in the southwest of Johannesburg when the crash occurred at around 7 a.m.
Witnesses said the minibus was overtaking stationary vehicles when it struck the truck in a head-on collision. Police said an investigation is underway and the truck driver will be questioned.
Officials say both drivers will be investigated
Gauteng provincial education official Matome Chiloane told reporters the driver of the school minibus would also be investigated for possible reckless driving.
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Injured taken to Sebokeng and Kopanong hospitals
Gauteng Emergency Services said five patients were transported to Sebokeng Hospital, while two others were taken to Kopanong Hospital for further medical care. The minibus driver was injured and was among those taken to the hospital.
Ramaphosa and education minister call for safer school transport
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed sadness at the loss of life and said national and provincial authorities would provide families and schools with psychosocial support.
“Our children are the nation’s most precious assets and we must do all we can — from observing the rules of the road to the quality of service providers,” Ramaphosa said.
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube said many crashes involving school transport are caused by driver error. She also called on the Department of Transport to ensure vehicles used to transport schoolchildren are roadworthy.
Sources:
Associated Press – “School bus crash in South Africa kills at least 13 children, police say”
TimesLIVE – “IN PICS | Accident claims 13 school pupils in Vanderbijlpark”
Channels Television – “13 Schoolchildren Killed In South Africa Minibus Collision”
