MANZINI – A St Michael’s High School learner who had been hospitalised following the June 12 Mzimnene crash has died, becoming the second fatality from the incident and intensifying scrutiny over the case.
The school's Head teacher, Nokuthula Simelane, confirmed the death in a statement issued yesterday, expressing deep sadness over the passing of the female learner who had remained in hospital since the accident on June 12 near Mzimnene Bridge along Meintjies Street. In its message, the school said the learner had “sadly passed away and has ascended to glory”, and extended condolences to her family, friends, classmates and the wider school community.
It further called on parents, guardians, learners and staff to keep the bereaved family in their prayers as the school community continues to grapple with the loss and seek comfort and strength. The learner is the second person to die from injuries sustained in the crash that shocked the country, after a runaway Toyota Quantum kombi allegedly struck nine pedestrians, most of them St Michael’s High School learners. The injured were reported to be receiving treatment at Mbabane Government Hospital.
She follows Masoft Sibongosemabindza Vilakati (27) of Sphofaneni, who died on the day of the accident after being certified dead on arrival at Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital due to multiple injuries.
In court proceedings, the kombi driver, Sipho Dumsani Dlamini (49) of Logoba, was charged with culpable homicide and operating an unroadworthy motor vehicle. The State successfully opposed bail, arguing that two victims remained in critical condition and that investigations were still ongoing. The matter was postponed to June 30, 2026.
With one of the critically injured learners now deceased, prosecutors may consider adding another culpable homicide charge when the case returns to court.
Meanwhile, the kombi owner has also been arrested in connection with ongoing investigations and charged with operating an unroadworthy motor vehicle, after prosecutors indicated that another suspect was expected to face charges.
The arrests form part of continuing investigations into the fatal June crash, which allegedly occurred when the kombi suffered brake failure while approaching the Manzini Bus Rank, mounted the pavement, and ploughed into pedestrians.
The kombi involved in the fatal accident is seen resting on the pavement near Mzimnene after allegedly suffering brake failure and striking pedestrians on June 12. (Pics: Siphosethu Dlamini)