“We are lost for words. This is a disaster. Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, and our prayers for a speedy recovery to those who have been taken to various hospitals around the area.”

Kempton Express reports that these were the words of Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport Planning Councillor Andile Mngwevu, who visited the scene of the devastating bus crash on the R21 in the East Rand.

“To see so many bodies lying around is quite saddening, and the city feels for the families who would have expected to see their loved ones return home later today. Our hearts are extremely heavy right now.”

Mngwevu vowed that the city would leave no stone unturned in determining the cause of the crash.

At the time of the statement, police investigators and other stakeholders were combing the scene for evidence that may shed light on what transpired.

Initial investigations have not confirmed whether other vehicles were involved in the crash.

Kempton Express reports that City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed 12 deaths and that 45 people were injured.

@kemptonexpress The EMPD has confirmed that 12 fatalities have been reported so far following this morning’s bus crash on the R21 northbound. Reported earlier TOTAL CLOSURE of R21 north following fatal bus crash Motorists travelling on the R21 northbound are advised to use alternative routes following a fatal bus crash earlier this morning, March 11. Multiple fatalities have been reported. The affected section of the highway has been closed to allow emergency services to conduct rescue and clean-up operations. #TiktokNews #kemptonexpress #kemptonpark #localnews #kempton #cityofekurhuleni #Police #emergencyservices Video by @boitumelodinne19 intern journalist for @kemptonexpress ♬ original sound – KemptonExpress

Pretoria Rekord reports that emergency services are still actively working at the scene.

According to its sources at the scene, the crash happened at around 06:45. Paramedics are still attending to passengers trapped in and under the bus.

Scores of injured passengers have been transported to various hospitals for treatment.

“The injured were taken to O.R. Tambo, Thembisa, and Edenvale hospitals,” Dlamini said.

The lane heading to the airport remains closed, and motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.