Parachute jumper misses landing strip, collides with girl

A grade 6 learner was seriously injured in a freak accident at the Voortrekker Monument on Sunday.

The Roodeplaat learner was reportedly injured 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, Babsie Joubert, was prepared to say.

According to Gerhard Pretorius, a spokesperson for the monument, 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,” said Pretorius.

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

Pretorius said paramedics were present at the event, and subsequently, the girl immediately received medical care on the scene and then was 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 said they were satisfied that a subsequent investigation had concluded that all safety measures had been adhered to and that the incident was indeed nothing but a freak accident.

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

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

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