At least 12 schoolchildren and their bus driver lost their lives in a tragic accident in Gauteng province, South Africa, as they were on their way to school, local officials said on Wednesday.
Seven other children are receiving treatment in hospital.
Gauteng Minister for Education Matome Chiloane stated that the children came from two schools in Carletonville, around 78 kilometres west of Johannesburg.
“This tragic event profoundly saddens me. The loss of our children is a devastating blow to our community,” said Chiloane.
The Gauteng Education Department said the vehicle carrying the children was allegedly struck from behind by a light pickup truck, causing the vehicle to overturn before it caught fire.