DE DEUR – A tragic collision between a bus and a scholar transport mini-bus has left one pupil dead and four others battling for their lives.

The incident unfolded at approximately 6:26 AM on Monday, September 18, casting a dark cloud over what should have been a typical school day.

According to a police spokesperson, the collision occurred when a taxi, carrying five pupils, attempted to make a routine turn, only to be struck with overwhelming force by a bus.

Following the incident, an immediate response from local authorities and emergency services was ensured.

Midvaal Emergency Services, along with the vigilant efforts of traffic officers and the local police, raced to the scene with urgency in their hearts.

Two helicopters descended upon Rose Road, their rotor blades slicing through the morning air to airlift the most critically injured pupils to Milpark Hospital

The scene at the doorstep of De Deur police station was one of chaos and heartache, as parents and onlookers gathered, their faces stamped with worry and despair.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Sedibeng Police Spokesman Captain Fikile Funda said a case of culpable homicide has been launched and further investigations are underway.

“A bus was traveling from east to west, collided with a minibus traveling west to east on Rose Road when the taxi decided to make a right turn. Passengers in the minibus were taken to Kopanong and Milpark Hospital while one was certified dead on the scene,” he said.

“The ages of the passengers who were in the minibus ranged from 12-18. The driver of the minibus was treated on the scene for minor injuries. Our specialized component from the Accident Unit is still busy on the scene for further investigations,” he said.