The death toll from the tragic bus crash that occurred on the KZN North Coast on Sunday afternoon has risen to nine. The 82-seater bus, which was carrying churchgoers, veered off the N2 highway between Richards Bay and Shaka’s Kraal at approximately 4 pm.
The bus, operated by Pontys Transport in Tongaat, was involved in the devastating accident, which is believed to have been caused by a tyre failure. According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), this failure led to the driver losing control of the vehicle. RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane confirmed that the bus crashed through a crash barrier, plummeted down an embankment, and ultimately overturned.
The accident tragically claimed the lives of six women, one man, and a four-year-old toddler. The identity of the ninth victim has not yet been disclosed.
In addition to the fatalities, the crash left four people with serious injuries, while 35 others sustained minor injuries. Twelve passengers were fortunate enough to escape without injury.
The KZN Department of Transport has assured the public that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash, though preliminary reports suggest tyre failure played a critical role. Simon Zwane emphasized that the full investigation is ongoing.
This tragedy has left a community in mourning, with many questions still lingering about the circumstances that led to such a devastating accident.
