Truck Driver Convicted on 20 Murder Charges After Horrific Crash Kills 18 Schoolchildren in South Africa
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – A disturbing video footage captured the harrowing scene as a 55-ton truck collided head-on with a car carrying 18 schoolchildren, resulting in the tragic death of all onboard.
The driver, convicted on multiple charges, faces sentencing following a horrifying accident that shook South Africa.
Dashcam footage from the truck's cabin reveals the alarming sight of the massive vehicle careening down the wrong side of the road, prompting oncoming traffic to swerve to avoid collision. Despite overtaking fifteen vehicles, the heavy goods vehicle, laden with 34 tons of coal, collided with a Toyota Station Wagon at over 60mph.
Tragically, the collision claimed the lives of school-run driver Lethukuthula Nkonyane, 19, and passenger school teacher Zinhle Mkhize, 28, along with eighteen schoolchildren aged between five and twelve, as the truck dragged the car for 220 meters.
The driver, Sibusiso Siyaya, 28, has been convicted on 20 murder charges stemming from the incident in Kwazulu Natal in 2022. Siyaya's reckless driving, motivated by financial incentives and fatigue, led to devastating consequences.
During the trial, it was revealed that Siyaya had removed his vehicle's number plates to evade speed cameras and disregarded safety protocols, including failing to engage the lowest gear at Itshelejuba Pass. Despite facing evidence of his culpability, Siyaya initially claimed brake failure and fled the scene, only to be arrested the following day.
The court found that Siyaya's actions, captured on video, demonstrated a blatant disregard for the safety of others, leading to multiple fatalities. Judge Garth Davis emphasized Siyaya's deliberate decision-making and lack of remorse, convicting him on counts of murder, reckless driving, and failure to report the accident.
Employed by BaoBao Projects, Siyaya had received incentives for increased productivity, highlighting systemic issues within the transportation industry. As the court adjourns for sentencing, the families of the victims mourn their loss.
A mass funeral was held for the victims in September 2022 attended by government officials.
