The latest information from the SAPS following the Riebeeckstad High School bus accident outside Ventersburg late on Tuesday afternoon, in which six girls between the ages of 13 and 14 died, four were critically injured and eight seriously injured, has shed more light on the incident.
“On the bus were 48 Gr. 8 learners, six Gr. 12 learners and two teachers, one of whom was the bus driver. The bus of the Riebeeckstad High School was traveling from a camp outside Rosendal to Welkom,” says
Brigadier Motantsi Makhele.
The police are investigating a case of culpable homicide. Makhele says it is still too early to hold anyone liable; until it has been proven as such by the outcome of the investigations.
The names of the deceased cannot be released at this stage, as the next of kin are still in a process of formally identifying them.
Lt. Gen. Baile Motswenyane, Free State police commissioner, has extended her heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and teachers of the children.
“It is with heavy hearts that we extend our deepest condolences to the families during this difficult time. We appeal to our communities to be sensitive about the details pertaining to this accident and avoid communicating unconfirmed information, which might cause unnecessary confusion to the families that are already going through very difficult times.”
