Tragedy struck a family in Carletonville when they lost four of their children among eleven who perished in a devastating incident involving a scholar transport vehicle. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning when a Toyota minibus taxi carrying children to Rockland Primary School and Laerskool Blyvooruitsig was rear-ended by a Ford Ranger. The impact caused the minibus to overturn and subsequently catch fire, leading to the tragic deaths of eleven children and the driver, all of whom suffered severe burns.

Reports indicated that the victims, including the driver, were so badly burnt that they could not be identified. Eight other children who survived the ordeal were initially taken to Carletonville Hospital, where seven were discharged later in the day. One child, needing specialized care, was transferred to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto. The driver of the Ford Ranger also required hospital treatment.

President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the profound impact of losing young lives at the beginning of a school term. He offered sympathy to the families, friends, students, and educators affected by the tragedy, recognizing the irreparable loss and the unfulfilled futures of the children.

Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi echoed the nation’s grief, particularly highlighting the unbearable pain of a family losing four children in one tragic incident. He noted efforts to support affected families while respecting their need for privacy during this difficult time.

MEC Matome Chiloane of education, sports, arts, and culture for Gauteng expressed disbelief and hinted at accountability, emphasizing the need for stringent vehicle safety standards for scholar transport vehicles. The incident involved a privately operated vehicle not registered with the department, prompting renewed concerns over safety protocols.

Authorities confirmed that both vehicles involved were roadworthy, complicating initial assessments of the tragic accident. As investigations continue, the community and authorities mourn the loss of young lives and reflect on measures to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.

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