VEREENIGING – The death of 6-year-old Mpil-entle Nonjoli has left the Vaal community reeling. The grade 1 pupil from Laerskoool Sonlandpark was trampled on by a vehicle outside school premises on 24 February.

Father Mangaliso Nonjoli says he received a call from the school on the day, informing him of an accident.

“At first, I thought the scholar transport used by my daughter had been involved in an accident. I was later informed that my daughter had lost her life in a fatal car accident.”
Nonjoli said he was working outside the province.

“I could not attend the scene, but my wife, relatives, and friends rushed there. This has been a great blow to our family. My wife is struggling to come to terms with the loss of our beloved daughter.”

Describing his daughter, Nonjoli said from a young age, Mpil-entle was inquisitive, welcoming, and loved people despite their age or race.

“My daughter and I were extremely close. She taught us how to love and to be welcoming to other people. This is how we will continue to honor her.”

Nonjoli said the accident was a terrible mistake. “We know the person who was behind the wheel. She always takes care of kids as she is a scholar transport operator. We don’t believe that she meant for any of this to happen. As a family, we have forgiven her. We hope she will forgive herself and move on from this tragedy.”

Nonjoli informed Ster North that the woman had been hospitalised as a result of shock.

“We wish her a speedy recovery. We don’t want this tragedy to destroy her life.”

Nonjoli thanked the school and the department for the support given to him and his family during this difficult time.

Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) spokesperson Steve Mabona said the department is deeply saddened by the incident.

“GDE is extremely saddened by an incident where a learner from Laerskool Sonlandpark was unfortunately hit by a car outside the school premises. Consequently, the parents of the affected learner were called in and the paramedic was also called in. Unfortunately, the learner was certified dead at the scene.

“Accordingly, Our Psycho-Social Support team was dispatched to the school to provide the necessary trauma support and counseling. We extend our deepest condolences to the learner’s family and the school community at large, during this difficult period.”

Police spokesperson Captain Teboho Lephoto confirmed that a culpable homicide case docket is open for investigation.

A memorial service in honour of Mpil-entle was held at the school on 27 February. She was laid to rest over the weekend.