EIGHT people, including the driver, died after a bus overturned on Monday morning.
But the driver did not die as a result of the accident.
He was found hanging from a tree near the accident scene.
The horrific crash happened on Alma Road in Welkom, Free State.
Free State Health spokesman Mondli Mvambi said more than 40 passengers were injured.
Mvambi told Daily Sun: “Three people were critically injured, while eight sustained moderate injuries. Thirty-five passengers had minor injuries, while seven were declared dead at the accident scene.”
Provincial police spokesman Brigadier Motantsi Makhele said the driver was found hanging from a tree.
Makhele said: “The Intercape bus was travelling from Durban to Upington. There were about 53 passengers, including the assistant driver. It was about 3:30am when the bus lost control and overturned at a traffic circle on Alma Road.
“It is suspected the bus driver lost control of the bus. Seven passengers, including two children, died. We have opened a case of culpable homicide and an inquest. At this stage we have not determined the ages of the victims.”
Intercape spokeswoman Adre Zandberg said: “We are shocked and saddened by the accident. The driver was trained and appointed as a professional driver. He was familiar with that specific route.”
“Intercape senior staff were dispatched to the area to assist authorities and medical staff.
“The coach is in a roadworthy condition and a full certificate of fitness test was done on the coach two weeks before the accident.
“Our deepest and most sincere condolences go to the families of the dead passengers. Intercape regrets the accident.”
