The identities of the two Grade R learners who tragically lost their lives in a devastating scholar transport fire in Limpopo have now been confirmed, leaving communities in mourning and families shattered by the heartbreaking loss.
The victims have been identified as Lethukuthula Fankomo and Moruthanyane Kgodišo, both young learners from Apel Cross. The two children reportedly burnt beyond recognition after the scholar transport vehicle they were travelling in caught fire during a tragic accident last week.
According to reports, the incident happened on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, along road D4246 between Ga-Nkoana and Apel Cross. The Toyota Quantum, which was transporting learners from Mannyetha Primary School, allegedly lost control after hitting a rock on the road.
Moments after the collision, the vehicle burst into flames, causing panic among the passengers and nearby residents. Despite desperate attempts to save those trapped inside, the two Grade R learners sadly died in the blaze.
Five other learners sustained injuries during the incident and were rushed to medical facilities for treatment. Authorities have not yet released full details regarding the extent of their injuries, but messages of support and prayers for their recovery continue to pour in from community members and across social media platforms.
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, with residents describing the incident as one of the most painful events to hit the area in recent years. Families of the victims have reportedly been left devastated as they try to come to terms with the sudden and traumatic loss of their children.
Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Susan Mathye, expressed deep sorrow following the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, fellow learners, teachers, and the broader school community.
In a statement, Mathye said the department was saddened by the tragic deaths and assured the public that investigations into the incident are continuing. Authorities are expected to determine exactly what caused the accident and whether all safety regulations were followed.
The driver of the scholar transport vehicle has since been arrested. While details surrounding the charges have not yet been fully disclosed, police investigations remain ongoing.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has also responded to the tragedy, requesting a full report on the incident. She assured affected families that the provincial government would continue providing support during this difficult period.
The incident has once again raised concerns about scholar transport safety in South Africa, especially in rural communities where many learners rely on private transport operators to travel long distances to school each day.
Parents and community leaders are now calling for stricter inspections of scholar transport vehicles and improved road safety measures to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the community mourns the loss of the two innocent children, messages of sympathy and support continue to flood social media. Many South Africans have shared prayers for the grieving families and wished the injured learners a speedy recovery as investigations into the devastating incident continue.
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