A devastating road accident in South Africa’s Gauteng province has claimed the lives of at least 13 schoolchildren, sending shockwaves across the country. The tragedy occurred early Monday morning around 7 a.m. when a truck collided head-on with a school minibus transporting learners to various primary and high schools in the southwest of Johannesburg.
According to authorities, preliminary reports indicate that 11 children died instantly at the scene, while two others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital. The private minibus was carrying pupils to school when the fatal collision took place.
Witnesses at the scene said the minibus was overtaking stationary vehicles when it collided head-on with an oncoming truck. Police have confirmed that investigations are underway, and the truck driver will be questioned as part of the probe to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
Emergency responders acted swiftly, with Gauteng Emergency Services transporting five injured patients to Sebokeng Hospital, while two others were rushed to Kopanong Hospital for further treatment. The minibus driver also sustained injuries and was among those taken to hospital.
The incident has left families and communities mourning the loss of young lives and has once again raised concerns about road safety, especially involving vehicles transporting schoolchildren. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads as investigations continue.
