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N1 bus crash: Preliminary report reveals multiple failures behind 43 deaths

RTMC recommends action against unroadworthy foreign vehicles

By Andries van Zyl • 17 October 2025
N1 bus crash: Preliminary report reveals multiple failures behind 43 deaths

A preliminary investigation into a fatal bus crash, which killed 43 and injured 40, found excessive speed and mechanical failure were primary causes. The overloaded bus, carrying 91 passengers in a 62-seat vehicle, had only half its brakes functioning. Authorities recommend increased enforcement on foreign-registered and heavy vehicles, and will investigate the bus company further.

A preliminary investigation by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) into the 12 October bus crash on the N1 North just outside Louis Trichardt in the Soutpansberg Mountain Pass has identified speeding and mechanical failure as major contributing factors to the tragedy that claimed 43 lives and injured 40 passengers. The preliminary report was released earlier today.

Thirty-four (34) occupants sustained serious injuries and a further six (6) occupants sustained slight injuries....

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