Tragic Loss: Thirteen Schoolchildren Die in South Africa Bus Crash

Tue Jan 20 2026 04:59:04 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A devastating collision between a minibus and a lorry in Vanderbijlpark has left thirteen schoolchildren dead, prompting outrage and calls for better road safety protocols in South Africa.

Thirteen schoolchildren have tragically lost their lives in a minibus accident that occurred during a morning commute in Vanderbijlpark, South Africa. The minibus collided with a lorry while the driver attempted to overtake. Eleven of the students died at the scene, with two others succumbing to injuries later. In response, authorities have announced that a culpable homicide case will be opened, as experts address the persistent issue of road safety in the country.

Thirteen school pupils have died in South Africa after the minibus they were travelling in collided with a lorry south of the city of Johannesburg.

The crash happened on Monday morning at around 07:00 local time (05:00 GMT) in Vanderbijlpark, as reported by the local education authority.

Eleven students died at the scene, while two succumbed to their injuries later on. Two other pupils remain in critical condition.

The minibus driver crashed into the lorry after attempting to overtake two vehicles, police spokesperson Mavela Masondo said.

Masondo added that a case of culpable homicide would be opened.

The minibus driver was reportedly receiving treatment in the hospital, while the status of the lorry driver is uncertain.

Fatal road collisions are common in South Africa due to factors such as rampant speeding, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles. Statistics indicate that in 2025, 11,418 people died in crashes — about 6% lower than in the previous year but still averaging 31 deaths per day.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described the incident as distressing, emphasizing the need to protect learners, stating: Our children are the nation's most precious assets, and we must do all we can – from observing the rules of the road to ensuring the quality of service providers appointed to transport scholars – to protect learners.