An investigation has been launched after seven people died in a collision between a truck and bus early Friday morning on the N6.
The accident occurred between Rouxville and Smithfield, around 04:00.
According to Hillary Mophethe, spokesperson for the Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport (CSRT), a City-to-City bus travelling to Rouxville and a truck heading to Smithfield, collided head-on.
“According to an initial report by the Emergency Medical Services (EMS), four males, two females, and a boy lost their lives in the crash, and 36 people were severely injured. The injured were transported to the Stoffel Coetzee Hospital in Smithfield.”
According to the police, the drivers of both vehicles are amongst the deceased.
The police in Rouxille have opened a case of culpable homicide and the circumstances that led to the accident are under investigation.
MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, provincial MEC for the department, says she is shocked by the news of so many lives lost.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families affected by this unfortunate event. We also express our heartfelt gratitude to all the emergency response teams and personnel who have worked tirelessly in very cold and wet circumstances to provide aid and support, and to safeguard the area to prevent further tragedies on this stretch of road.
“Their swift and professional performance have undoubtedly saved many lives. We kindly request the cooperation and patience of the public as we work to clear the accident scene and investigate the incident thoroughly.”
