A bus accident on the N6 between Rouxville and Smithfield in the Free State has killed at least seven passengers.
Initially, OFM News reported that five persons were killed in the Friday crash. Two more bodies, however, were discovered trapped within the bus.
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Autopax, a subsidiary of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), expressed sadness over the loss of the passengers in the disaster.
The bus was travelling from Johannesburg to Idutywa (Eastern Cape) via the Free State, according to Autopax CEO Neil Roesch.
“A preliminary report indicates that the truck moved into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with the bus. 43 passengers are being treated for injuries at the nearest hospital. Sadly, passengers lost their lives. The drivers of both vehicles also lost their lives.
“We deeply regret the multiple loss of life as a result of this terrible accident. We are hopeful that those who sustained injuries will recover quickly. We extend our condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones,” says Roesch.
FREE STATE
*ROUXVILLE/SMITHFIELD*
Serious Accident on N6 between Rouxville and Smithfield.Multiple fatalities, bus vs truck. 27km from Smithfield towards Bloemfontein. The road will be CLOSED. Please use alternative routes. pic.twitter.com/4k69PaMfSX
— Road Angels Traffic Information (@Road_Angels_SA) July 21, 2023
Autopax praised the rapid response teams and traffic officials for their quick response and handling of the accident.
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Earlier this month, 15 people were killed in a horrific incident on the N10 in Aberdeen, Eastern Cape, involving a fully-loaded cab and a truck.
According to the Eastern Cape Provincial Transport Department, the collision occurred when the heavy-duty truck collided with a cow and the driver lost control of the vehicle.
According to Unathi Binqose, the taxi was headed to the Western Cape.
“As the driver was trying to regain control of the truck, unfortunately, the trailer of the truck gave in and hit a fully loaded taxi killing everybody inside.
“The MEC for transport in the Eastern Cape has conveyed her sincere condolences to those who have passed away.
