A tenth victim has died after a devastating head-on collision between a minibus taxi and a bus on the R39 road between Standerton and Morgenzon on Thursday morning.
The crash, which occurred around 05h15, claimed the lives of all ten occupants of the minibus taxi, including the driver. Eight people died at the scene, while the ninth succumbed to injuries while being transported to hospital. A tenth person later died in hospital.
According to Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison spokesperson Moeti Mmusi, one survivor sustained serious injuries, while two others escaped with minor injuries. The bus driver sustained slight injuries, and at least one bus passenger was unharmed.
Authorities suspect reckless and negligent driving contributed to the tragedy, though the exact cause is still under investigation. Misty conditions at the time of the accident are also believed to have played a role by reducing visibility on the road.
MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, extended condolences to the bereaved families.
This latest fatal crash adds to the growing concern over road safety on Mpumalanga’s provincial routes, where minibus taxis are frequently involved in serious collisions.