Death toll from R21 bus crash rises to 16
The death toll from Tuesday morning’s bus crash on the R21 North in Ekurhuleni has risen to 16, with four additional fatalities recorded in hospitals.
On Tuesday morning, a municipal bus overturned on the R21 Northbound, just after the R24 split near OR Tambo International Airport in Kempton Park.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the crash involved the passenger bus and an unidentified car. Both vehicles were travelling in the third lane from the right of the R21.
“The death toll now stands at 16. Twelve people died at the scene, and four others succumbed to their injuries in hospital,” said RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane.
It’s alleged that the light motor vehicle suddenly applied its brakes after missing an offramp exit.
In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, causing the bus to lose control and overturn,
The RTMC crash investigator confirmed that the exact cause of the accident was still under active investigation on Tuesday afternoon.
Meanwhile, Ekurhuleni Road and Transport MMC Andile Mngwevu strongly rejected claims that the crash was linked to the bus's roadworthiness, stating that rigorous daily quality checks are conducted.
Mngwevu emphasised that the bus, which regularly used the route, was closely monitored.
He added that if any issues had been identified, the drivers would have reported them, and the bus would have been taken off the road.
“Our buses are roadworthy, and we conduct continuous checks to ensure they are fit for purpose. We can confirm that this bus was in good condition,” Mngwevu said.
The MMC also confirmed that they would be visiting the families of the deceased while awaiting the final report from law enforcement.
He has vowed that the city would thoroughly investigate the cause of the crash.
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