Update at 12:00 on January 20

The health department has confirmed 12 learner fatalities following a taxi-truck collision in Vanderbijlpark, dismissing reports of higher numbers.

Read the update here.

January 19 at 14:24

A dark cloud has fallen over the Vanderbijlpark community following a road crash early this morning.

Sedibeng Ster reports the tragedy occurred at approximately 07:00 on Fred Droste Road when a private scholar transport vehicle and a side-tipper truck collided. Initial reports from the scene indicated that 11 pupils had died, but the death toll rose to 13 after another child passed away in hospital.

Officials visit scene

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and MEC Matome Chiloane visited the scene to assess the situation, offer support to the affected families and engage with emergency services.

“It really is a tragic day for us as the department and the province. We extend our deepest condolences to the learners, families and school communities affected. We call for greater vigilance when it comes to scholar transports, particularly private scholar transport,” said Chiloane.

Injured treated, investigation underway

Preliminary reports indicate that the injured learners are being treated at local medical facilities.

The taxi driver is reportedly also hospitalised, while details regarding the truck driver remain unclear.

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

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