MEC Grant Shocked at Death of Two Grade 12 Learners

"It is with shock and sadness that I have learnt that two learners from Oude Molen High School in Pinelands, Darren Hoffman and Roqeeb Isaacs, have tragically passed away," said Grant.

"I would like to send my deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Darren and Roqeeb. My thoughts are with them during this difficult time."

Five learners were involved in the accident which occurred around 1pm this afternoon on Jan Smuts Drive in Pinelands. The learners had just completed writing this morning's Physical Sciences Paper 2 (Chemistry).

"The three other learners were also injured in the accident," said Grant.

"Two learners, Ezra Messenheimer and Jason Kansley, have been taken to Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital were they have reportedly sustained minor injuries. Monique Odendaal has been taken to Groote Schuur Hospital where she is in a serious, but stable, condition."

Grant said that Western Cape Education Department (WCED) officials from the metro central district had been to the school to investigate how they could assist in counseling and support.

"Our counsellors will be available tomorrow at the school to provide trauma counselling. Both the police and a local church have also offered counselling," he said.

"I want to thank the many staff members of Old Mutual for their assistance at the scene. I have also heard that the staff at Life Vincent Pallotti has been outstanding in providing support to learners that are traumatised."