Death toll rises to 14 in Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash

Tragedy deepens as two more learners die in Vanderbijlpark crash

The devastating scholar transport accident in Vanderbijlpark has claimed two more young lives, bringing the total death toll to 14 learners. Families across Gauteng are mourning as authorities update the public on the unfolding tragedy.

Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, spokesperson for Gauteng SAPS, confirmed that the 22-year-old driver of the scholar transport vehicle now faces 14 counts of culpable homicide, alongside charges of reckless and negligent driving. The driver is expected to make his first appearance at Vanderbijlpark Magistrate Court later this morning.

A shocking collision that shook the province

The crash occurred earlier this week when a scholar transport vehicle collided with a truck. While the truck driver escaped unharmed, a passenger in the truck sustained injuries and is receiving medical attention. Emergency services quickly responded, visiting hospitals and the mortuary to confirm fatalities and injuries.

“This is a heartbreaking day for the province,” Masondo said. “Our thoughts are with the families of the learners affected. Investigations are ongoing, and we are gathering witness statements to determine exactly what led to this tragedy.”

Safety concerns reignited

The Vanderbijlpark incident has reignited concerns about the safety of scholar transport vehicles in Gauteng. Parents and community members have called for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, mandatory vehicle inspections, and better oversight of learner transport services to prevent similar disasters in the future.

Social media has been flooded with messages of grief and outrage, with many users sharing condolences and urging authorities to take stronger action to protect children on the roads.

Next steps in the investigation

Authorities have yet to officially confirm the cause of the crash. Forensic teams are reviewing evidence from the scene, while witness statements are being compiled to piece together the events leading up to the collision.

More information is expected once the accused driver appears in court. Meanwhile, Gauteng communities are left grappling with the scale of the loss, with local schools and parents expressing deep concern over the safety of learner transport vehicles.

The Vanderbijlpark tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks faced by young learners commuting to and from school, and the urgent need for comprehensive road safety reforms.