The departmental spokesperson, Howard Ndaba, says a Grade 5 learner from the Boaramelo Primary School in Jagersfontein died on the spot after he and four other boys were allegedly jumping on and off a truck, until the deceased fell and was hit by an oncoming truck.

Ndaba sent condolences to those affected by the incident and further said the department will provide support and counselling to the family and affected learners and educators.  

"The incident took place around 13:00. At the time of the incident, the learner was not at school. The deceased and four others were reportedly playing at a valley known as the Vlei, where mine workers were working to deal with the aftermath of the recent disaster.

"We express our condolences to the family, educators and learners of Boaramelo Primary School," he said.

ALSO READ: Child allegedly killed in mine truck accident at Jagersfontein

OFM News previously reported that a 62-year-old elderly man was found dead in a pool of water between Charlesville and Itumeleng, known as Skoti. This is after he went missing on Friday last week and was found on Saturday, 22 October 2022.

ALSO READ: Man’s body discovered at Jagersfontein cleanup site

Free State Police spokesperson, Mahlomola Kareli, said that police were alerted to the scene where the 62-year-old victim was found at around 11:00. He said members of the Jagersfontein Crime Prevention Unit were busy with their duties when a community member stopped their vehicle, indicating a body in the water.

ALSO READ: Body found in Jagersfontein not related to mine disaster

Meanwhile, Ndaba says the department will work with police to investigate the matter.

OFM News