A tragic accident in Vanderbijlpark, south of Johannesburg, claimed the lives of thirteen pupils on Monday after a private scholar transport minibus collided with a truck.
The vehicle, which was carrying learners to several schools in the area, was forced off the road following the impact. Multiple passengers, including the driver, sustained serious injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals.
The Gauteng Department of Education confirmed that the death toll rose from an earlier count of twelve after another learner died in hospital. The department said all details remain preliminary as authorities continue their investigations.
Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi visited the crash site and expressed deep concern, describing the scene as devastating. He noted ongoing efforts to improve regulation within the transport sector, highlighting long-standing gaps in oversight of privately operated scholar transport services.
Education MEC Matome Chiloane said the pupils attended three public schools and two private schools, spanning both primary and secondary levels. He added that early information from law enforcement suggests the driver may have a case to answer. Chiloane urged parents to prioritise safety over punctuality, stressing that arriving late is preferable to risking unsafe travel conditions.
According to police, initial reports indicate that the minibus was attempting to overtake two vehicles when it collided with the truck. The South African Police Service is expected to open a case of culpable homicide as part of its investigation.
Political party Build One South Africa has called for a transparent and urgent probe into the incident, urging authorities to determine whether the vehicle met safety standards, whether the driver was appropriately licensed and whether all scholar transport rules were followed. The party emphasised the responsibility placed on the state and service providers to safeguard children using these services daily.
The Department of Basic Education said counselling and psychosocial support will be provided to affected families, learners and school staff. It also appealed to motorists to exercise heightened caution during school transport hours and reiterated the importance of ensuring that vehicles carrying children are roadworthy and compliant with safety regulations. Further information will be released as investigations progress.
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