42 People Confirmed Dead in Horror Bus Crash on the N1 Highway

The death toll from the horrific bus crash on the N1 highway outside Louis Trichardt in Limpopo has risen to 42, with 38 others injured and receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.

Authorities say the bus, which was travelling from Gqeberha to Zimbabwe, lost control before rolling down an embankment and landing on its roof. The accident occurred on Sunday morning and involved a cross-border passenger bus carrying Malawian and Zimbabwean nationals.

Emergency services, police, and traffic officers remained at the scene for hours conducting search and rescue operations, with some passengers still believed to be trapped in the wreckage. A 10-month-old baby was among those confirmed dead.

Limpopo transport officials described the scene as “devastating,” with bodies and debris scattered across a steep slope. Rescue teams had to use specialised equipment to retrieve survivors and recover the deceased.

Provincial Transport Department spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene said investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the tragedy. Authorities are considering driver fatigue or a mechanical fault as possible factors.

Police have opened a case of culpable homicide and urged motorists to drive cautiously as investigations continue. The Limpopo provincial government has extended condolences to the bereaved families and said efforts are being made to assist in the identification of victims and provide psychosocial support.

Officials say this incident ranks among the worst road disasters to hit the province in recent years.