Police in the Free State are investigating a fatal road accident involving a passenger bus that occurred on the N1 five kilometres outside Trompsburg heading towards Bloemfontein on July 30.

The bus carrying around 78 occupants, including the driver, was travelling along the N1 route from Cape Town to Zimbabwe.

​The driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to capsize and overturn on the highway.

Following further verification during the extrication process, the fatality toll has been revised from 12 to 10. Among the deceased are four adult females, ​one adult male, ​three girls and two boys.

​Fifty seven (57) passengers sustained injuries and were transported to the local Albert Nzula Hospital in Trompsburg for medical treatment.

​Nine (9) passengers were rushed to Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein for further specialized medical care.

​The bus driver has been taken into police custody for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

​Emergency services, SAPS, Traffic Officers, and Forensic Pathology Services were dispatched to the scene. At 12:00 this afternoon the N1 was still closed in both directions near the incident site to allow forensic pathologists to complete scene processing and to facilitate the safe towing and recovery of the wreckage.

A case of culpable homicide has been registered for further investigation.  

Motorists are advised to expect delays and use alternative routes where possible, Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli