Tragedy Strikes: 12 Learners and 1 Driver From Rockland Primary Die in Horrific Carletonville Crash
A devastating accident near Fochville on Wednesday morning claimed the lives of 12 learners from Rockland Primary School and Laerskool Blyvooruitsig.
The crash, involving a private scholar transport vehicle, occurred when it was struck from behind, causing it to overturn and catch fire. The driver of the vehicle also tragically died, while seven other learners have been hospitalized.
The incident took place around 6:45 am, just a day after schools reopened for the new term. The collision resulted in the death of 11 learners from Rockland Primary School and one learner from Laerskool Blyvooruitsig. The transport vehicle, which caught fire after being hit from behind, led to catastrophic consequences.
As investigations into the incident continue, authorities are examining the exact circumstances surrounding the fiery collision. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of young lives, and netizens have expressed their condolences and fears for the safety of their own children who use scholar transport.
Leskorate expressed concern, saying, “Where did this happen? I’m just thinking of my kids, they use scholar transport to school and back home.” SatyriasisKING commented, “Kodwa Bawo, they just returned to school for the start of the third term,” and SirDavid_Dashe echoed, “Sad news for our country; the schools just reopened yesterday, and then this.” MorwesiTricilda added, “This is sooo sad.”Matome Chiloane, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) MEC, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the affected families and community. “I am profoundly saddened by this tragic event.
The loss of our children is a devastating blow to our community, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased and injured learners.”In response to the crisis, the GDE has mobilized support teams to provide immediate assistance to the schools and affected families.
Psycho-social support services have been dispatched to aid learners and staff in coping with the emotional aftermath of the incident. Steve Mabona, spokesperson for the GDE, emphasized the department’s commitment to standing alongside the community during this difficult time. “Counseling services will be made available to all learners and staff members to help them cope with the emotional aftermath of this tragedy.”GDE officials will visit Rockland Primary School and Laerskool Blyvooruitsig to coordinate support efforts and provide assistance where needed.
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