Media Alert: Update on Knysna Accident

The Western Cape Government Health's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) have responded to a major accident which occurred 10 km outside Knysna. A driver transporting 58 children to Rheenendal Primary School lost control of the vehicle, which went headlong into the Kassat se Drift River. According to EMS and Forensic Pathology Services (FPS) personnel on scene, 14 children and the bus driver were recovered from the river and have been declared dead on arrival.

EMS Rescue stabilised the bus whilst still in the river and rescue divers from both Western Cape Government Health: EMS and SAPS continued to search for more children. The bodies of the driver of the bus - an adult male - and 14 learners between the ages of seven and 14 were taken to Knysna FPS Laboratory. Identification will take place today and tomorrow, followed by autopsies to ascertain the cause of death. EMS Rescue will assist in removing the bus from the river.

The 44 learners were transported to the Provincial Knysna Hospital by EMS and ER24. A team of social workers are counselling friends and family of the victims.