A single-decker coach carrying parishioners from various churches overturned on the N2 near Swellendam on Friday, resulting in the death of five people and the injury of 48 others. The incident has left the nation in mourning.
As news of the tragedy spread, messages of condolence were shared on various social media platforms. Reverend June Dolley, a gender-based violence activist, expressed her grief over the incident, revealing that St. Aidan’s was her home parish and that she knew most people on the bus. Dolley added that messages between parishioners went back and forth, hoping no one else would die.
Premier Alan Winde and Minister of Mobility Ricardo Mackenzie conveyed their condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased. Mackenzie also reminded the public to be extra vigilant on the roads, especially during this long weekend. Provincial Traffic Officers are out in full force to prevent more crashes. Still, everyone needs to take personal responsibility for their safety by not speeding, taking breaks when tired, not using their cell phone while driving, and not drinking and driving.
The Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Nomafrench Mbombo, stated that the most critical patients had been airlifted to Groote Schuur, Tygerberg, and George Hospitals. Referrals were being sent to Worcester Regional Hospital with EMS vehicles. Patients were being triaged accordingly on-site, and the green patients were being seen at the local clinic, while the rest were being treated at Swellendam Hospital.
St. Aidan’s Church in Lansdowne declined to comment on the incident except to express their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased.
This tragic incident serves as a sad reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety measures. The nation mourns the loss of these precious lives, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of those affected.
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