Preliminary investigations indicate that the Quantum was attempting to overtake four vehicles when it collided head-on with an oncoming truck. He said the death toll at the scene had initially been reported as 11 but has now risen to 13. The road was strewn with blood-stained school bags, a stark reminder of the tragedy that had just unfolded.
The wrecked Toyota Quantum lay on its side, with only two seats remaining, as emergency personnel laboured frantically among the debris. The air was filled with the sounds of screams, cries, and distraught parents. This was the scene on Monday morning, January 19, when a truck and an overloaded scholar transport vehicle carrying eighteen people collided head-on in Vanderbijlpark in the Vaal, killing thirteen children.
Police have since opened a case of culpable homicide and warned that additional charges may be added. One mother, who lost two children in the crash, collapsed in agony as emergency personnel tried to assist her. “Two of my children are dead.
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I just want to see their bodies. What did I do to God to deserve this? I just want to die,” she cried, unable to stand as grief overwhelmed her.
Colonel Mavela Masondo, Gauteng police spokesperson, confirmed that several learners were injured and taken to hospital. Masondo added that four learners and the vehicle’s driver were taken to Sebokeng Hospital, while one learner and the assisted truck driver were taken to Kopanong Hospital.
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