Tragic Collision Claims Lives of Thirteen Schoolchildren in South Africa

Mon Jan 19 2026 23:51:45 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A devastating road accident in Vanderbijlpark, South Africa, resulted in the deaths of thirteen school pupils after a minibus collided with a lorry. The incident has raised alarms about road safety as investigations continue.

A tragic accident occurred in Vanderbijlpark, South Africa, where thirteen school children lost their lives when a minibus collided with a lorry during an overtaking maneuver. Eleven children were pronounced dead at the scene, while two succumbed to their injuries later. The incident, happening early in the morning, has spurred discussions on road safety and the need for improvements in transport regulations. President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his distress over the incident and emphasized protecting children as national priorities.

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 in Vanderbijlpark, according to the local education authority.

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

Reports indicate that the minibus driver crashed into the lorry while attempting to overtake two vehicles, as stated by police spokesperson Mavela Masondo.

A case of culpable homicide is being opened against the driver, who is reportedly receiving treatment in hospital. The condition of the lorry driver remains unclear.

Such tragic road collisions are prevalent in South Africa, often attributed to rampant speeding, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles. Recent statistics reveal that 11,418 individuals lost their lives in crashes in 2025, averaging 31 deaths a day.

In reaction to the incident, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his distress, emphasizing that children are the nation's most cherished assets. He called for stricter adherence to road safety rules and improved quality of transport services for school children.