By Staff Reporter
VANDERBIJLPARK – A devastating scholar transport crash in Vanderbijlpark has claimed the lives of 12 learners, including two Grade 1 pupils, following a collision on Monday, 19 January 2026.
The accident occurred at approximately 07:00 on Fred Droste Road, when a private scholar transport minibus taxicollided with a side tipper truck. Eleven learners were certified dead at the scene, while one learner later succumbed to injuries in hospital.
At least three learners sustained critical injuries and are receiving urgent medical care at local hospitals. The taxi driver was also hospitalised, while the truck driver escaped unharmed; a passenger in the truck sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.
The deceased learners have been identified as:
Buhle Radebe – Grade 11, Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark
Bokamoso Mokhobo – Grade 8, Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark
Sibongile Madonsela – Grade 10, Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark
Leano Moiloa – Grade 8, Vaal High School
Lesego Sefatsa – Grade 2, Oakwood Primary School
Letlotlo Katlego Makwe – Grade 2, Vaal Triangle Primary School
Ofentse Jayden Vinger – Grade 1, Oliver Lodge Primary School
Lindokuhle Mabaso – Grade 5, Noordhoek Primary School
Pheello Motaung – Grade 11, El-Shaddai Christian School
Puleng Maphalla – Grade 11, El-Shaddai Christian School
Naledi Motsapi – Grade 10, El-Shaddai Christian School
Bohlale Lekekela – Grade 1, El-Shaddai Christian School
Police have arrested the 22-year-old scholar transport driver after he was discharged from hospital. He is expected to appear before the Vanderbijlpark Magistrates’ Court within 48 hours, facing 12 counts of culpable homicide as well as reckless and negligent driving.
Following visits to hospitals and the mortuary, police confirmed that 12 learners died, while five were taken to hospital, with one since discharged. Investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to collect witness statements and analyze evidence.
