Three pupils from the same school, Ziphakamiseni School at Kilbarchan, were among the people killed in this morning’s horrific head-on collision on the R621, Alcockspruit, near Dannhauser.

Police spokesman, Sergeant ML Nyembe, said the tragedy occurred at 7.40am between a white VW Polo, travelling towards Newcastle, with five occupants, including the driver, a 20-year-old passenger and three students from Ziphakamiseni School, one girl and two boys, and a Toyota RAV4, travelling towards Dundee.

The three students died along with the passenger who was on his way to register for studies at the Amajuba College, Newcastle. A teacher from Siphutando School, Dannhauser, who was in the RAV, also died.

Police said it appeared as if the driver of the white Polo had overtaken another car on a barrier line and collided with the RAV.

The MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal,  Neliswa Peggy Nkonyeni, has sent  condolences to the family and friends of those killed one of which is believed to the 18-year-old daughter Dannhauser Mayor, Jabu Phakathi.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased during this very difficult period and we would like to wish all those who injured a very speedy recovery,” said MEC Nkonyeni.
The Department will send psychological services to counsel learners and educators so they are able to cope with this tragic incident