Drunk driver causes serious injuries to siblings on their way to school in Strandfontein

Marsha Dean|Published 3 months ago

Two learners knocked while on their way to school.

Two learners in Strandfontein have sustained serious injuries after the vehicle they were travelling in was hit by an alleged drunk driver of a minibus on Wednesday morning.

Footage from the scene was posted on crime groups showing the girls lying in Spine Road, dressed in their school uniform while they were being attended to.

Bronagh Hammond, spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) said the two girls who were involved in the accident are siblings who are in Grade 3 and Grade 8 and were on their way to school when the incident occurred.

Police spokesperson, Joseph Swartbooi, said the taxi driver was detained for reckless and negligent driving and driving under the influence of alcohol.

“Strandfontein police responded to a complaint on August 27. Upon their arrival at the crime scene in Spine Road, they found a minibus which collided with a motor vehicle.

"According to reports two children who were occupants of the motor vehicle sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

"The driver of the minibus, an adult male was detained for reckless and negligent driving and driving under the influence of alcohol.

"Once charged the suspect will make a court appearance in the Mitchells Plain Magistrates court on the mentioned charges,” said Swartbooi.

Two siblings were seriously injured when their vehicle was struck by a minibus driven by an alleged drunk driver in Strandfontein.

Hammond said the learners sustained injuries and the Grade 8 learner is in a serious condition.

“I can confirm with sadness and concern that two sibling learners (Grade 8 and Grade 3) were involved in an accident while travelling to school.

"They were knocked over by a taxi while crossing the road. They have sustained injuries, with one learner (Grade 8) in a serious condition.

"They are currently in hospital. Their parents have been notified and the school is providing additional support.

"While details surrounding the accident are not confirmed at this stage, initial reports indicate reckless driving by the taxi driver.

"The two girls are in our thoughts and we pray for a swift and positive recovery.”

Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.

Cape Argus