Survivors recount horror of Free State N8 crash during Premier Letsoha-Mathae's visit
Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and MEC Jabu Mbalula visit survivors of the N8 crash at Pelonomi Hospital.
Image: Supplied
Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae and MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport Jabu Mbalula visited survivors of a devastating multi-vehicle crash on the N8 between Botshabelo and Bloemfontein, hearing firsthand accounts of the horror that unfolded.
The crash, which occurred on Saturday near the RRR farming area in heavy rain, involved a bus carrying commuters and a truck. Eleven people were killed, and dozens were injured.
One survivor, Polelo Mahloane, who will undergo leg amputation due to his injuries, recounted the terrifying moments to Premier Letsoha-Mathae and MEC Mbalula from his hospital bed at Pelonomi Hospital.
“I was sitting on the front seat and saw everything. As we approached the truck, I was wondering if the driver was able to see it. By the time I yelled out to her to be careful, it was too late," Mahloane said.
"I tried to run to the back, but the impact was severe and the pain excruciating. It could have been worse. I saw some of the passengers lying on the ground dead, and I was fortunate to have survived. I am thankful that my life was spared.” Mahloane said.
Another survivor, Nozipho Nhlathi, who sustained a broken leg, described the scene.
“I saw dead people around me. It was horrible and I am happy that my life was saved,” she said.
Premier Letsoha-Mathae said the accident was one of the worst she had witnessed in recent memory.
“We once again call on road users to exercise caution on the roads. I went to the scene with MEC Mbalula in the morning and what I saw was terrible. I also want to thank medical professionals at Pelonomi Hospital for taking care of those who sustained injuries,” she said.
MEC Mbalula urged motorists to exercise extreme caution, particularly in poor weather conditions.
“We cannot stress enough the need for extreme caution. We urge all motorists to reduce speed, increase following distances, and use alternative routes where possible during such adverse weather conditions,” he said.
The Free State Provincial Government has activated a multi-departmental support structure to provide medical and psychological support to victims and their families.
Emergency services remain on site, and traffic on the N8 remains heavily affected.
The tragedy has left the province in mourning, as officials continue to provide support to survivors and families of the deceased.
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