Vaal school transport tragedy claims two more young lives, death toll rises to 14

The death toll from the devastating Vaal scholar transport crash has climbed to 14 after two more children succumbed to their injuries on Thursday morning, deepening the grief of families across Vereeniging.

The latest deaths mean the 22-year-old driver of the scholar transport vehicle now faces 14 counts of culpable homicide, in addition to a charge of negligent driving.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, as parents mourn children who left home that morning expecting nothing more than an ordinary school day.

According to preliminary findings, the crash occurred when the driver allegedly attempted to overtake several vehicles and collided head-on with a truck.

Twelve learners were pronounced dead at the scene, while others were rushed to hospital with serious injuries.

The truck driver escaped without injuries, while a passenger in the truck sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Gauteng police spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed that investigations are ongoing, with officers continuing to gather witness statements to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash.

The scholar transport driver remains in police custody as the probe continues.

The tragedy has once again reignited conversations around reckless driving and road safety, with many South Africans calling for stricter accountability to prevent further loss of innocent lives.