KwaMbonambi school bus crash leaves two dead and one toddler critical
A total of 51 patients were transported to hospital for injuries
TWO teenagers have died and a toddler is in a critical but stable condition following a collision between a school bus and a Toyota Hilux on the P232 leaving KwaMbonambi.
While the cause of the accident is unclear, reports indicate that the bus, transporting learners from KwaMbonambi Primary School, had been traveling east along the P232 bypass while a Toyota Hilux double cab, with four female occupants, had been travelling north bound.
The bus collided with the vehicle before the bus driver lost control and veered off the road and down the embankment.
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Two of the passengers in the Hilux died upon impact while the toddler has been airlifted to Melomed Private Hospital by IPSS’ Black Eagle Helicopter after sustaining critical injuries.
The driver of the Hilux, who was the mother of the two deceased and grandmother of the toddler, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to hospital by Meditrax EMS for further treatment.
At least 42 school learners, from grades R to 8, sustained minor injuries while five have been transported to hospital for moderate injuries.
Speaking to the ZO on scene, Principal of KwaMbonambi Primary School, Charmaine Pillay conveyed her condolences and wished her learners a speedy recovery.
‘I am just thanking God at this moment because there were no fatalities from the school.
‘I want to thank all medical services, SAPS and traffic officials for their quick response and assistance.
‘I would also like to thank the principals from neighbouring schools for their support during this time.
‘A detailed report will be sent to the Department of Education tomorrow,’ she said.
Meanwhile Operational Manager for Sihlangene Bus Services, Njabulo Gumede, said there had been no mechanical faults on their bus building up to the accident.
‘This bus is in good condition, the brakes are working 100% and there is nothing wrong with it,’ he said.
Police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.
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