The death toll from a tragic scholar transport accident in Vanderbijlpark has risen to 13 learners, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) confirmed on Monday.
The incident occurred on the morning of Monday, 19 January 2026, when a private scholar transport vehicle collided with a side tipper truck on Fred Droste Road in Vanderbijlpark. Initial reports confirmed 12 fatalities, but the department later announced that one additional learner succumbed to injuries, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths to 13.
According to preliminary information, the crash happened at approximately 7am while learners were being transported to school.
Eleven learners were declared dead at the scene, while others were rushed to nearby medical facilities.
Three learners sustained critical injuries and are receiving urgent medical care. The taxi driver was also reported to be hospitalised, while details surrounding the truck driver remain unclear.
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said he was deeply devastated by the tragedy, describing it as a dark day for the department and the province.
“It really is a tragic day for us as the Department and the province. We extend our deepest condolences to the learners, families, and school communities affected. We call for greater vigilance when it comes to scholar transport, particularly private scholar transport,” said Chiloane.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and MEC Chiloane visited the scene of the accident to assess the situation, engage with emergency services and offer support to the affected families.
The GDE said all information remains preliminary as investigations continue. Police are currently probing the circumstances that led to the collision.
Mapepeza News extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, learners and school communities, describing the loss as devastating and deeply painful.
