The aunt to four children who died from injuries sustained when a gas tanker exploded in Plantation on Christmas Eve (December 24) told the Boksburg Advertiser that the family is struggling to make sense of the events of that fateful day.

A tanker carrying LP gas became lodged under the railway bridge in Hospital Street at around 06:15, some time later it started burning and then two devastating explosions happened.

Patricia Jansen van Vuuren said the children’s mother, Rosetta Brits, is devastated at the loss of her four children; Jamel Eales (16) and Sebastian (14), Adrian (12) and Gerrie Brits (10).

Jamel’s boyfriend, Ian de Lange (25) also lost his life.

The family lives in Plantation and Adrian, Gerrie and Sebastian attended Laerskool Goudrand Primary.

Patricia explains they were walking back from visiting Ian’s employer, who lives close to them.

“They had noticed the truck stuck under the bridge on their way home and decided to see what was happening and take photos. That’s when the explosion happened.

“Jamel, Ian and Gerrie died instantly. Sebastian was airlifted to Charlotte Maxeke and died 30 minutes after arrival and Adrian was taken to Far East Hospital and died at 19:15 that night.”

The family discovered their loved ones were involved in the explosion when they went to the scene upon hearing the blast to go see what had happened.

“We are struggling to accept the reality that we will no longer see the children. They were so energetic, loving and happy,” she says.

“We are still arranging for their burials. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the oganisations that helped us, including the political parties.”

Anyone who wants to donate to the family can do so through the Actonville CPF or contact councillor Imtiaz Lunat on 082 560 8293.

Meanwhile, the driver of the gas tanker was arrested on the same night at a private hospital where he was receiving medical attention for minor injuries.

He is expected to appear in court tomorrow.