Preliminary information on the fatal bus crash on the N1 near Touws River suggests that the bus driver tried to avoid colliding with another vehicle.
This is according to Simon Zwane, of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), following the accident in the early hours of Thursday morning.
According to the Western Cape SAPS, the bus was en route to the Eastern Cape from Cape Town, carrying more than 70 passengers. The incident occurred at around 00:40. SAPS spokesperson Colonel Andre Traut said no other vehicles were involved.
He further noted that the deceased comprise “seven adult males, five adult females and three children”.
“Several other passengers sustained injuries of varying severity and were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment,” said Traut.
The initial report by the Provincial Mobility Department indicated that 16 people had died in the crash; a statement by police one hour later noted 15 fatalities.
“There may have been different reports as the scene progressed this morning – what we issued is what we have confirmed,” said the department’s Head of Communication, Muneera Allie.
Further to this, the department advised that two passengers sustained serious injuries.
“Early information indicates that the bus driver swerved on the road to avoid collision with a bakkie, and that resulted in him losing control of the vehicle, and it overturned,” said Zwane.
Zwane said that a team of investigators with the RTMC has been dispatched to investigate the incident and to confirm the exact cause.
“A report is expected before the weekend starts,” said Zwane.
Traut confirmed that police have also launched an investigation.
Chief Director for Traffic Management, Maxine Bezuidenhout, said stop-and-go traffic measures were still in place hours after the crash.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic crash. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives. And we wish those who were injured a full and speedy recovery,” said Provincial Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku.
