Survivors injured in the fatal crash are receiving comprehensive medical treatment at Sebokeng and Kopanong hospitals, as the identification of the deceased gets under way. One learner was airlifted by helicopter to Alberton Private Hospital late last night, while 12 bodies have already been identified. The deadly crash occurred on the R553 behind ArcelorMittal and involved a minibus taxi transporting learners and a side-tipper truck on Monday morning.
11 learners died at the scene, while seven survivors sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital following the collision. Initial reports put the death toll at 11 on the scene, but this has since risen to 14, as authorities continue to verify details. Preliminary investigations indicate that the overloaded Toyota Quantum was attempting to overtake four vehicles when it collided head-on with an oncoming truck.Four injured learners and the driver of the minibus taxi were taken to Sebokeng Hospital, while one learner and the assistant truck driver were transported to Kopanong Hospital.
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) said that two patients have since been discharged. Sadly, the 12 deceased learners were taken to the Sebokeng Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) mortuary. They include nine female and three male learners.
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“Families have been briefed by the FPS and the South African Police Service, and 11 of the 12 learners have already been identified,” the department said. The GDoH added that autopsies are expected to be concluded by Tuesday, January 20, to allow families to prepare for dignified send-offs. Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko sent condolences to the bereaved families.
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