A devastating bus crash near Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport early Tuesday morning left 16 people dead and dozens more injured after the vehicle lost control and flipped on the highway, authorities confirmed.
Emergency responders arrived to find passengers scattered across the road, with two bodies trapped in the wreckage, according to William Ntladi, an emergency management spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni municipality. Among the debris were personal belongings, including handbags, a lunch box, and a water bottle, painting a grim picture of the chaos that unfolded.
Twelve victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while four others succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. Officials reported that at least 11 passengers were in critical condition, while 24 sustained moderate to serious injuries.
The cause of the crash remains unknown, but officials confirmed that no other vehicles were involved. The bus was transporting passengers from Katlehong, a township east of Johannesburg, and was just minutes away from exiting the highway when the accident occurred.
“We are lost for words. This is a disaster,” said city councilor Andile Mngwevu. “To see so many bodies lying around is heartbreaking. The city truly feels for the families who expected their loved ones to return home today.”
The tragedy marks the third serious bus accident in South Africa within a week, raising concerns over road safety. Transport Minister Barbra Creecy expressed deep concern and has ordered the Road Traffic Management Corporation to meet with bus operators in the coming days to discuss ways to improve passenger safety.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash as families and communities mourn the lives lost.