13 Children Killed in South Africa School Bus Truck Collision

At least 13 children lost their lives in a devastating school bus accident in South Africa’s Gauteng province on Monday morning, authorities confirmed. Eleven children died at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries in hospitals, highlighting the severe impact of the crash.

The accident occurred around 7 a.m. southwest of Johannesburg, when a minibus carrying schoolchildren collided head-on with a truck while attempting to overtake stationary vehicles. Witnesses reported that the bus was transporting students to several primary and high schools in the area at the time of the crash.

Emergency services quickly responded, transporting five injured students to Sebokeng Hospital and two others to Kopanong Hospital. The bus driver was also injured and received medical attention. Police said the truck driver would be questioned as part of an ongoing investigation into the incident.

Also Read: Biker Killed After Stray Dog Chase Ends in Fatal Crash in Karnataka

The scene was marked by grief, with parents seen weeping uncontrollably and emergency personnel collecting scattered schoolbooks and stationery. Local authorities and schools have pledged to provide psychosocial support to affected families and students in the wake of the tragedy.

President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the importance of road safety and proper oversight of vehicles transporting children. “Our children are the nation’s most precious assets, and we must do all we can to protect learners,” he stated.

Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube highlighted that driver error remains a leading cause of school transport accidents. She urged the Department of Transport to ensure that all vehicles used for transporting children are roadworthy and comply with safety regulations, stressing the urgent need for stricter oversight.

Also Read: Five Gujarat Residents Including Woman Constable Killed in Punjab Highway Crash