Vaal Crash: Driver now charged with 14 counts of murder
Ayanda Dludla faces 14 counts of murder following a deadly scholar crash.
Image: Ithumeleng English.
The 22-year-old driver involved in the Vanderbijlpark crash that claimed the lives of 14 learners is now charged with 14 counts of murder.
Ayanda Dludla was initially facing charges of culpable homicide (negligently causing the death).
However, at his first court appearance at the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on Thursday morning, the National Prosecuting Authority said that he would be charged with murder.
He also faces one count of attempted murder, driving without a valid permit, and operating an unlicensed vehicle.
There was a high police presence outside the court when IOL News arrived.
Members of political parties, civil society organisations and the local community gathered nearby, holding placards reading “We condemn reckless driving” and expressing solidarity with the families of the victims.
Earlier today, Gauteng police confirmed that two more learners had died after succumbing to their injuries, bringing the total number of fatalities from the crash to 14.
The horrific crash, which sent shockwaves across Gauteng and the country, involved a scholar transport vehicle and a truck.
On Tuesday, police said Dludla was arrested after being discharged from the hospital, where he had been receiving treatment following the crash.
Officers visited hospitals and the mortuary to verify the number of fatalities and injuries.
Masondo previously said the truck driver was unharmed, while the passenger sustained injuries and is receiving treatment in the hospital.
Investigations are continuing, with police obtaining witness statements and assessing the circumstances leading up to the crash. The cause of the accident has not yet been officially confirmed.
The tragedy has renewed concerns over scholar transport safety and road conditions, with calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and improved oversight of learner transport services.
More details are expected to emerge when the case continues.
IOL News