Hoërskool Driehoek bids farewell to 14-year-old Jandré
Family and friends have bid farewell to 14-year-old Jandré Steyn who died after a walkway fell on 26 pupils last week, a tragedy that has shocked Vanderbijlpark residents.
Steyn and two other pupils were declared dead on the scene and one other died later in hospital.
At least 26 other pupils sustained moderate to critical injuries.
Emotional community members filled the River of Life church on Thursday morning.
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“He lived his life fully. Jandré left deep scares in everyone's heart who knew him. He had a radiant face that always smiled. He always wanted to see everyone happy. He lifted everyone’s spirit around him. He loved sports and the water," said Pastor Armand Niemand.
#HoërskoolDriehoek Steyn's family members carry his casket out of the church. pic.twitter.com/vkmN9t3Ahm
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) February 7, 2019
A family friend, told mourners, Pote van Rensburg, told mourners, Steyn's father Jan, told him he had two heart attacks in December and believes he was given two-second chances at life, he didn't expect to lose a child a shortly after.
Three other deceased pupils will be laid to rest in Vanderbijlpark on Friday.
Twelve of the learners who were injured are still recovering in the hospital.
ALSO READ: Human Rights Commission to investigate BLF comments over Hoërskool Driehoek tragedy
The Gauteng Department of Education says parts of the school have been declared safe and the school will reopen on Monday.
Community members are still laying wreaths outside the school to commemorate the children.
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