Free State N8 crash death toll climbs to 11. Image: SABC
(The Post News)- The death toll from the devastating collision on the N8 has climbed to 11. The crash occurred between Botshabelo and Bloemfontein. This follows the death of another patient who had been receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at Pelonomi Hospital.
The Patient Died Today
According to the authorities the patient died on Monday, 17 November 2025. This adds to the ten fatalities declared at the scene. The crash involved a bus and a heavy duty truck.
Free State Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi visited survivors at Pelonomi Hospital on Monday afternoon. Several injured passengers stay there under medical care. He expressed deep sympathy for the families affected by the tragedy.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. The survivors are experiencing immense physical trauma. They are also going through emotional trauma. Our teams are doing everything possible to support them,” Mahlatsi said.
Families of the ten victims who died at the scene have identified their relatives at the government mortuary. Officials described the atmosphere as emotionally charged.
The crash took place on N8 where passengers had been on their way to work when it happened. At least 41 people were injured, including two survivors who lost their legs during the violent impact.
Survivor Affected Emotionally due to the Crash
One survivor, Nozipho Dlati, said she is struggling to cope with the emotional aftermath. “I can’t sleep. Every time I close my eyes, I see the crash happening again. It feels like I’m reliving it over and over,” she said.
Another survivor, Polelo Mahloane, recounted the desperate moments leading up to the collision.
“I tried to get out before the impact, but it was too late. I’ve accepted the loss of my leg. I’m just grateful to be alive,” Mahloane said.
Authorities have confirmed that both vehicles were traveling in the same direction. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation. The health department acknowledged the swift completion of postmortems. It also recognized the rapid medical response. Nonetheless, it noted the “deep sorrow” felt over the rising number of fatalities.
At the government mortuary, visibly distraught families gathered to recognize the bodies of their loved ones.
N8 Separate Accident
Meanwhile, in a separate incident on Monday morning, another crash occurred on the N8. This crash claimed three more lives. It further intensifies concerns about road safety in the Free State.
Emergency and law-enforcement officials continue to watch the scene of the first crash. Traffic on N8 remains heavily affected, and motorists are urged to continue with caution and follow instructions from authorities.
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