A HORRIFIC crash in the Eastern Cape has killed 15 people who were on their way home from a funeral.
The taxi carrying 15 passengers was involved in the crash with a truck near Aberdeen on Sunday night, 2 June.
Provincial Transport Department spokesman Unathi Binqose said: "It's alleged that at about 9pm on 2 June. A heavy-duty truck was travelling from Graaff Reinet, and a minibus was driving in the opposite direction. It's further alleged that the truck lost control, and the trailer collapsed onto the oncoming minibus.
"The driver of a heavy-duty truck allegedly lost control after the vehicle hit a stray animal. As the driver tried to regain control, the truck's trailer collapsed and crushed the fully loaded taxi. All 15 passengers in the minibus, including a 2-month-old infant and a two 2-year-old toddler, died."
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"The truck driver escaped with minor injuries. The taxi was coming from a funeral in Tsolo near Mthatha, and they were travelling back to Western Cape when the accident occurred. We are in the process of informing families, and all those who want to identify their loved ones can go to Aberdeen Mortuary."
Colonel Priscilla Naidu confirmed that the police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.
"The provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nomthetheleli Mene, has expressed her condolences to the family of 15 victims. She extended her sympathy to the families of the devastated crash victims," Naidu said.
