One learner still unidentified after deadly Vanderbijlpark scholar transport crash

Posted on January 20, 2026
by Yashmika Dukaran


The Gauteng Department of Education says one of the learners who died in Monday’s tragic scholar transport crash in Vanderbijlpark has yet to be formally identified.

Twelve pupils were killed when the minibus taxi they were travelling in collided with a truck, while several other learners, along with the driver, sustained injuries and were taken to hospital.

Department spokesperson Steve Mabona says officials are continuing to work closely with affected families to finalise the identification process.

He confirmed that the learners came from seven different schools across the Vaal area.

“The number of learners who passed on is 12, and out of those 12, there is one child who remains unidentified. We are working with families to ensure the process is completed and that the child is properly identified,” Mabona said.

Authorities say support services are being provided to families and schools affected by the tragedy, as investigations into the crash continue.