N1 bus overturns in Free State: 11 dead, dozens injured

A bus overturned on the N1 north in the Free State late Thursday, killing 11 people five children and six adults and injuring dozens, provincial authorities said. The crash happened about 24km north of Trompsburg in the direction of Edenburg shortly after 9:30pm.

Immediate emergency response

The Road Traffic Management Corporation’s spokesperson, Simon Zwane, said emergency teams moved quickly and that 66 passengers were injured and taken to various medical facilities. He added that the RTMC’s crash investigation team had been deployed to determine the cause of the crash.

“Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene where 66 passengers were injured and taken to various medical facilities. The RTMC’s crash investigation team has been deployed to determine the cause of the crash.” Simon Zwane, RTMC spokesperson

Grim scene and on-scene details

Free State Health Department spokesperson Mondli Mvambi said the vehicle was lying across the N1 and completely obstructing the roadway, with emergency medical services and law enforcement rushing to the scene.

“Initial reports indicate 14 injured persons outside the bus, while one child’s hand remained trapped under the vehicle. Tragedly, 11 people – five children and six adults – have been declared deceased. Their identities cannot yet be confirmed.” Mondli Mvambi, Free State Health Department spokesperson

Rescue operations and traffic

Triage and extrication operations continued as rescue teams worked through the wreckage. Law enforcement officers managed traffic and assisted emergency crews. Motorists travelling between Trompsburg and Edenburg were urged to exercise extreme caution, reduce speed and expect significant delays while traffic officials diverted vehicles where possible.

Condolences and updates

Mvambi extended condolences to the families of those who died and wished the injured a speedy recovery, saying the department would provide updates as more information became available.