Bloemfontein bus crash leaves 10 dead

Bloemfontein, South Africa – At least 10 people have died in a horror collision between a bus and a truck.

The deadly collision occurred on Saturday, 15 November 2025, along the N8, about 5 km from Mandela View, on the route between Bloemfontein and Botshabelo.

A statement made available to newsaih.com by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said as many as 41 people suffered injuries in the collision and “tragically, 10 people sustained fatal injuries and were declared deceased on the scene”.

The statement added: “They were declared deceased on the scene.”

Emergency responders, including paramedics, fire services, and law-enforcement officials, were on the scene..

Six individuals suffered severe and critical injuries and were taken to Pelonomi Trauma Unit.

Seven patients with moderate injuries were transported to Botshabelo Hospital and Busamed.

The RTMC said 24 people sustained minor injuries and were transported to Botshabelo Hospital for further care.

One patient assessed by responders chose not to be transported to the hospital.

“Crash reconstruction experts have been sent to the scene to determine the exact cause of the collision,” the statement said.

“Traffic remains heavily affected in the area, and motorists are urged to proceed with caution and follow the instructions of officials.”

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa have expressed serious concern about the rise in fatalities in road crashes involving public transport.

“Their concerns were raised in the wake of today’s tragic loss of 10 lives from a serious collision between a truck and an Interstate Bus Train approximately 5 km from Mandela View between Bloemfontein and Botshabelo,” said Department of Transport spokesperson Collen Msibi.

Minister Creecy has directed the RTMC to investigate the cause of the crash, working together with local authorities.

The preliminary investigation report is expected in 48 hours from the time the RTMC begins its investigation.

Minister Creecy and Deputy Minister Hlengwa have also extended their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased during this challenging time, and they wish for a swift recovery for all the injured.

“They have also urged all road users to be more cautious as we approach the festive season and its attendant risks, including the risks that come with the rainfall season,” said Msibi.