Grieving family of Grade 5 learner waits 8 hours for body to be collected after goal post allegedly fell in school sports ground

By Staff Reporter

TEMBISA – The grieving family of a 10-year-old Grade 5 learner from Reagile Primary School in the Winnie Mandela area were forced to endure an agonising eight-hour wait before their child’s body was collected from the school premises on Monday, 16 February 2026.

The young learner lost his life after a goal post allegedly fell on top of him during second break at around 12:30. It is reported that a group of learners were playing near the soccer posts when the structure reportedly collapsed, causing severe injuries.

Paramedics were immediately summoned to the scene and arrived within approximately 20 minutes. Despite efforts to resuscitate the child, he was sadly declared deceased at the scene.

However, the family’s pain was compounded when they had to wait until 20:17 for Forensic Pathology Services to arrive and collect the body from the school grounds — nearly eight hours after the tragic incident.

Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Department of Education has also confirmed that it will conduct its own enquiry.

The Department has dispatched its Psycho-Social Support Unit to provide counselling and support to learners, educators, and the bereaved family during this difficult time.

“The Department is deeply saddened by this tragic incident. We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the learner’s family, fellow learners, educators, and the entire school community,” said MEC Chiloane.

The tragic incident has raised concerns about safety measures at schools, particularly regarding the stability and maintenance of sports equipment on school premises.