A grade 6 learner from Roodeplaat in Pretoria was seriously injured in a freak accident at the Voortrekker Monument on Sunday when a parachute jumper missed the landing strip and collided with her.

“She is well and receiving good medical care, the scans were positive,” was all her mother was prepared to say.

Gerhard Pretorius, a spokesperson for the monument, says the SA Defence Force Association of the Council for Military Veterans held their annual memorial service at the SANDF Wall of Remembrance, situated at the monument.

“Various activities took place during the service including that of parachute jumpers having to land on the monument’s parking area,” says Pretorius.

“One of them missed the landing strip and collided with the girl. It was an obvious freak accident.”

Pretorius says paramedics were present at the event and the girl immediately received medical care on the scene. She was then transported to a nearby hospital for further care.

“Management of the monument contacted the family and supports them during this difficult time.”

The association’s chairperson Johann du Preez says they are satisfied that an investigation concluded that all safety measures were adhered to and that the incident was indeed a freak accident.

“I can confirm there was no negligence on anyone’s part,” he says.

“The girl’s cheekbone was fractured, and she will undergo surgery. She does not have a medical aid and is being supported by the association in that respect.”