South Africa was in mourning on Monday after 13 schoolchildren were killed when a minibus transporting learners collided with a truck near the industrial city of Vanderbijlpark, south of Johannesburg, according to local authorities.
The crash occurred as the children were traveling to or from school. Officials said three other students survived and were being treated in hospital for injuries.
Police have opened a culpable homicide case as investigators work to determine the exact cause of the collision.
A police official told broadcaster Newzroom Afrika that early findings suggest a dangerous overtaking maneuver may have led to the crash. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been announced.
Emergency services responded to the scene, where the minibus was extensively damaged, highlighting the vulnerability of children who rely on informal transport systems to get to school.
President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his condolences to the families, teachers, and classmates of the victims, calling the deaths a national tragedy.
“We must do all we can to protect learners,” Ramaphosa said in a statement, adding that the safety of children on South Africa’s roads must remain a priority.
Local education officials said counseling services would be offered to affected schools and communities in the coming days.
The crash has renewed attention on South Africa’s persistent road safety crisis. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said last week that the country’s road death toll remains “a reason for national shame,” despite a modest decline in fatalities.
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According to government data, 11,418 people died on South African roads in 2025. While that figure represents a 6 percent drop from the previous year, it still amounts to an average of 31 deaths each day.
Authorities said the outcome of the police investigation will determine whether charges are brought against any individuals involved.
