Gauteng matric learner dies after being struck by bus during chaos at Hartbeespoort school

A Grade 12 pupil from Schaumburg Combined School in Hartbeespoort has died after being hit by a scholar transport bus during violent chaos that erupted at the school last week.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) confirmed on Monday that the 18-year-old matric girl succumbed to her injuries on Sunday after being transferred to a hospital in Ga-Rankuwa.

The department's spokesperson Steve Mabona said the incident unfolded on Thursday when four boys allegedly entered the school premises through a fence at the back of the property.

According to Mabona, the intruders confronted a group of Grade 12 pupils who were on their way home after finishing their exams.

“It was reported that the intruders then started a fight with Grade 12 learners who were on their way home after completing their examinations. As the altercation intensified, learners from lower grades became unruly and joined the commotion. Educators intervened and attempted to restore order by directing learners toward the buses,” he said.

Mabona said at the bus loading area, the situation escalated further as some pupils allegedly attempted to forcefully take control of buses.

“One bus driver, fearing for his safety, drove off to escape the unrest. Tragically, in the process, three Grade 12 learners and one Grade 10 learner were struck by the bus,” he said.

Emergency services were called to the scene, and the injured pupils were transported to hospital. While three matric pupils were hospitalised, one of them later died from her injuries.

Mabona confirmed that police have launched an investigation into the events leading up to the tragedy.

He said the department's psychosocial support teams will be dispatched to the school to provide counselling to learners, staff and the affected families.

MEC Matome Chiloane expressed condolences to the family and condemned those involved in sparking the violence.

“The Department conveys its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, classmates, and the entire school community for their loss. It is saddening that such a chaotic outburst led to the unfortunate passing of a learner who had completed her exams. We condemn the scrupulous individuals who instigated this unfortunate event,” said Chiloane.

The department said it will work with law enforcement to ensure accountability for those responsible.