Tragedy on N8: Bus rear-ends truck between Bloemfontein and Botshabelo, leaving 10 dead and 30 injured

A devastating traffic accident occurred on Saturday morning on the N8 highway connecting Bloemfontein and Botshabelo, resulting in ten fatalities and multiple injuries. Emergency services reported that a bus carrying commuters rear-ended a truck near Mandela View, leading to chaos on the roadway.

According to Free State EMS spokesperson Sipho Towa, the accident involved a total of 41 people. Tragically, ten passengers—seven men and three women—were pronounced dead at the scene. Six individuals sustained critical injuries and were transported to Pelonomi Trauma Unit, while 24 others suffered minor to moderate injuries and received care at Botshabelo Hospital and Busamed. One person chose not to be transported following initial assessment.

“We were activated around 6:35 a.m. for a collision on the N8 involving a bus that collided with a truck,” Towa said. “Law enforcement and the police accident investigation unit are currently at the scene. Emergency services, including paramedics and fire teams, responded immediately to assist those affected.”

The bus passengers were primarily residents of Botshabelo traveling to Bloemfontein for work when the incident occurred. Towa confirmed that a light motor vehicle was also involved, though no injuries were reported in connection with that vehicle.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) and other relevant authorities have urged drivers to exercise caution when passing the scene, as the lanes heading toward Bloemfontein remain closed. Traffic disruptions are ongoing, and officers are guiding motorists around the affected area.

Weather conditions at the time of the crash were rainy, potentially contributing to the severity of the collision. Multiple passengers were reportedly trapped, necessitating the involvement of fire rescue teams to safely extricate those affected.

The Free State Department of Health and emergency personnel continue to monitor the situation, providing care and support to those injured. Updates from authorities are expected as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident progress.

This tragic event underscores the risks faced by commuters on busy highways and highlights the importance of road safety measures. Authorities are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information regarding the accident to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.

FAQ

Q: How many people died in the N8 accident?
A: Ten people were pronounced dead at the scene.

Q: How many were injured?
A: Thirty-one individuals sustained injuries, ranging from minor to critical.

Q: Where were the injured taken?
A: Six critically injured patients were taken to Pelonomi Trauma Unit, while others were transported to Botshabelo Hospital and Busamed.

Q: What caused the accident?
A: The bus rear-ended a truck. Weather conditions were rainy, but investigations by the police accident unit are ongoing.

Q: Were any other vehicles involved?
A: A light motor vehicle was also involved, though no injuries were reported from that vehicle.

Q: What should drivers do near the scene?
A: Motorists are advised to proceed with caution, follow law enforcement instructions, and expect delays.