Death Toll Rises to 14 in Vanderbijlpark Scholar Transport Crash

The death toll from the tragic scholar transport crash in Vanderbijlpark has risen to 14 learners, after two more children who were receiving treatment in hospital passed away.

The accident happened on Monday, 19 January, when a minibus transporting learners collided with a truck on the R553 Golden Highway. Twelve learners died at the scene, while several others were rushed to hospital with serious injuries. Authorities later confirmed that two injured learners succumbed to their injuries, pushing the death toll to 14.

The 22-year-old driver of the scholar transport vehicle has since appeared before the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates’ Court. The charges against him have been upgraded and now include 14 counts of murder, as well as charges related to reckless and negligent driving. He is also accused of operating the vehicle without a valid professional driving permit. The case has been postponed, and the driver has abandoned his bail application.

Police investigations revealed that the minibus was not compliant with scholar transport regulations, raising serious concerns about the safety standards of vehicles transporting children to school. Video footage, witness statements, and vehicle inspections are forming part of the ongoing investigation.

The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement of scholar transport laws, including better screening and training of drivers, regular roadworthiness checks, and tighter monitoring of private transport operators. Government officials have acknowledged gaps in enforcement and have committed to reviewing existing regulations.

The Gauteng Department of Education has deployed psychosocial support teams to assist grieving families, learners, teachers, and affected schools. Government leaders have also visited families to offer condolences and support during this difficult time.

As communities continue to mourn, authorities say preventing similar tragedies will require stronger oversight, accountability, and a shared commitment to protecting the lives of learners on South Africa’s roads.