At least 11 pupils die after scholar transport crash in Vanderbijlpark

At least 11 pupils have died following a scholar transport crash in Vanderbijlpark, south of Johannesburg.

Preliminary information indicates the minibus taxi the learners were travelling in was struck by a side tipper truck, causing it to veer off the road.

The area has been cordoned off as investigators work to piece together exactly what happened.

In addition to the 11 fatalities, five other learners were seriously injured and have been rushed to nearby medical facilities.

The learners are believed to have been on their way to school when the crash occurred, turning a routine morning commute into a scene of tragedy and grief.

The cause of the collision has not yet been established.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane is expected to join police and emergency services at the scene, with authorities promising a full update as more information becomes available.

Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said, “We don’t have much detail at this stage, but the scene remains active and emergency services are attending to those involved in this tragic accident.”

The MEC is expected to address the media later on Monday.