Tragedy in Vanderbijlpark: 11 learners killed in scholar transport crash

Tragedy in Vanderbijlpark: 11 learners killed in scholar transport crash

Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng A routine school trip turned into a nightmare on Monday morning when a private scholar transport vehicle was involved in a tragic crash, claiming the lives of at least 11 learners. Five more children sustained critical injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.

The incident occurred earlier on 19 January 2026, leaving the community in shock and emergency services scrambling to respond. Paramedics, police, and other officials were on site, attending to the injured and managing the scene.

Education authorities respond

Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, is expected to visit Vanderbijlpark to oversee the response and support grieving families. The Department of Education issued a media advisory confirming the deaths and critical injuries, but details about the cause of the crash or the type of vehicle involved remain unclear.

Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue. “Further verified information will be shared as it becomes available,” the department said.

Community in mourning

Social media users and local residents have expressed shock and sorrow, offering condolences to the families of the learners. Many parents voiced concerns about the safety of private scholar transport services, calling for stricter regulations and regular vehicle inspections.

Local schools in Vanderbijlpark are reportedly supporting affected learners and staff, with counselling services being arranged for those impacted by the tragedy.

Road safety concerns

This incident adds to a growing concern over learner transport safety in Gauteng, where accidents involving scholar buses and private vehicles have raised questions about road infrastructure, driver training, and adherence to transport regulations. Advocacy groups are likely to call for urgent reforms to prevent future tragedies.

Ongoing investigation

At this stage, authorities have not confirmed the cause of the crash, leaving parents, educators, and the wider community anxiously awaiting answers. Law enforcement and transport officials are coordinating to secure the scene, collect evidence, and support the families of victims.

As Vanderbijlpark grapples with this heartbreaking loss, the focus remains on saving the injured, providing support to families, and uncovering the circumstances that led to the devastating crash.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com