Twelve people, including children, were killed and 66 others injured when a bus travelling from Cape Town to Johannesburg overturned on the N1 near Trompsburg in the Free State on Thursday night.
The crash was confirmed by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) on Friday morning.
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said the crash occurred when the bus travelling from Cape Town to Johannesburg overturned.
“Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, where 66 passengers also sustained injuries and were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.”
He said the RTMC crash investigation team had been deployed to determine the cause of the collision.
“Preliminary investigations are underway, and no conclusions will be drawn until all evidence has been examined.”
“The RTMC extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured.”
Zwane said motorists were urged to exercise extreme caution when travelling through the area and to follow all instructions from law enforcement officers managing the scene.
He said further updates would be provided as more information became available.
Meanwhile, the Free State Department of Health said earlier that Free State Emergency Medical Services (EMS) confirmed that the bus overturned shortly after 9.30pm on the N1, about 24km north of Trompsburg in the direction of Edenburg.
Department spokesperson Mondli Mvambi said the bus was lying across the N1, obstructing the roadway, and that multiple injuries and fatalities had been reported.
“Emergency services have been activated and are on scene. Law enforcement is on scene and managing the incident.”
Mvambi said EMS found 14 injured people outside the bus, while children had been trapped underneath it.
“11 people are reported as deceased so far – 5 children and 6 adults – their gender and identities cannot be fully determined at this stage.”
He said triage and extrication efforts were ongoing.
The EMS cautioned motorists travelling on the N1 between Trompsburg and Edenburg to be on high alert, reduce speed and expect significant delays.
“Traffic officials are diverting vehicles where possible. Road users are advised to use alternative routes.”
“Emergency Medical Services and law enforcement agencies are responding and will provide further updates as more information becomes available.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the families of those who have lost loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to all the injured,” Mvambi said.
simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za
IOL News
