Police investigate death of TUT student (20) after alleged stampede
According to a police report, many eventgoers were under the influence of alcohol upon arrival at the campus and as a result, people were impatient, and some were pushing in the queues.
Police have launched an inquest into the death of a 20-year-old, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) student who was a victim of an alleged stampede at the university’s fresher’s ball that took place on May 10.
Carol Mabunda was a second-year student who succumbed to her injuries after an apparent stampede occurred at the main campus of TUT, where the festivities were being held.
Police spokesperson Johan Van Dyk said an inquest was being investigated.
He said according to a police report the event began at 18:00 at the Laduma Stadium Pretoria Campus.
He said the event was very well supported by students and staff.
“No tickets were sold at the event venue. All tickets were sold online and only scanned and verified at the TUT Cricket Clubhouse. After verification, people were issued with wristbands. Most of the people bought general access tickets and they were queuing to enter.
Before entry, security conducted searches and service providers appointed by the event organiser were tasked to collect fees paid for cooler boxes.
Most of the people were already consuming alcohol while they were queuing, and others were already under the influence of alcohol upon arrival at the campus. As a result, people were impatient, and some were pushing in the queues. Some people were carrying ice in plastic bags, and they melted, and as a result, the entrance became muddy and slippery. At some stage, people slipped and fell but they were assisted to stand up and enter.”
He said no serious injury was reported to security or police throughout the event on-site, however various incidents of excessive drunkenness and other alcohol-related conditions were observed and it was mentioned that a female was transported to a hospital for medical care.
TUT spokesperson Phaphama Tshisikhawe said “TUT is saddened to announce the untimely passing of Carol Mabunda, a second-year National Diploma: Contact Management student at the Pretoria Campus.”
Tshisikhawe said while they await an official report from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the University is providing the student’s family and friends “with as much support as we can at this difficult time”.
** Please note that this article has been amended.
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