Wedela fatal accident: Bus driver allegedly fled from scene

The driver of the bus which was involved in an accident that claimed the lives of two learners from Wedela Technical High School allegedly fled the scene. 

The accident happened on Thursday afternoon, 20 October 2022 in Carletonville, Gauteng.   

WEDELA HIGH LEARNERS INVOLVED IN FATAL ACCIDENT 

According to the Gauteng Department of Education, the incident occurred around the Western Deep mine shaft 2 in the afternoon as learners were being transported home. 

It is alleged that the driver lost control of the bus and caused an accident that led to 63 learners, who were on board, being injured and hospitalised at the local medical facility. 

Unfortunately, a Grade 8 boy learner and a Grade 10 girl learner from Wedela Technical High School, who were also on board the bus, lost their lives due to this accident. 

Spokesperson, Steve Mabona said the driver is reported to have fled the scene following the accident and police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident. 

He added that a psychosocial support team will be dispatched to Wedela to provide urgent trauma support, which will also be extended to the families of the deceased learners. 

Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane said they are deeply saddened by the tragic incident. 

“We wish to convey our sincerest sympathies towards the families of the learners who lost their lives due to this unfortunate accident. We will provide the necessary counselling and support to all those affected by this occurrence,” he said 

Chiloane further called upon all scholar transport drivers to always be alert and make sure our learners travel safely at all times.

The MEC is expected to visit Wedela Technical High School on Friday, 21 October 2022.

ALSO READ: Stabbing, hair-pulling and a brawl: Gauteng rocked by ill-discipline of learners