An early-morning multi-vehicle collision on the N8 between Botshabelo and Bloemfontein in the Free State has claimed 10 lives, while several others were injured.

A statement by Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport spokesperson Hillary Mopethe states that the crash occurred at approximately 06:35.

“Preliminary reports from the Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport confirm that the crash involved a bus, a train and a heavy motor vehicle,” she adds.

Wet weather conditions have been cited, with persistent rainfall creating hazardous visibility and dangerously slippery road surfaces.

Casualties

• Seven men and three women confirmed dead on the scene
• 6 individuals critically injured
• 5 individuals with moderate injuries
• 19 individuals with minor injuries

Mopethe adds that the injured passengers were taken to local hospitals, including Braam Fischer Busamed, Pelonomi Trauma and Botshabelo.

Government response

According to Mopethe, the provincial government has activated a multi-departmental support structure:

• The Free State Department of Health is ensuring the injured receive the best possible medical attention at the designated hospitals.
• The Free State Department of Social Development has deployed social workers and trauma counsellors to provide critical psychological support and counselling to bereaved families, the injured, and all affected by the traumatic event.
• Emergency services and law enforcement remain on site, managing the scene, conducting preliminary investigations, and facilitating the temporary closure of lanes heading toward Bloemfontein to allow for their work.

Official statements

Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae expresses the province’s sorrow: “Today, a dark cloud hangs over the Free State. Each life lost on our roads is not just a statistic; it is a beloved mother, a father, a breadwinner, a friend, a vital thread in our social fabric torn away.”

Provincial Community Safety, Roads and Transport MEC Jabu Mbalula, who was on the scene, says: “We convey our deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones and our wishes for a full and speedy recovery to the injured.”

He emphasises the need for extreme caution: “Furthermore, as we near the holiday season, we call on those behind the driver’s seat to exercise caution, adhere to safety regulations and abide by the rules of the road to spare the life of a family member or someone out there.”

Mbalula urges motorists to reduce speed, increase following distances and use alternative routes where possible during adverse weather conditions.

Mopethe’s statement concludes that the provincial government will provide updates once reliable information is confirmed and urged citizens to refrain from speculating on social media.

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