Gas tanker disaster: Loss of four children surreal for family

The aunt to four children who died from injuries sustained when a gas tanker exploded in Plantation on Christmas Eve (December 24) told the Boksburg Advertiser the family is struggling to make sense of the events of that fateful day.

A tanker carrying LP gas became lodged under the railway bridge in Hospital Street at around 06:15, some time later it started burning and then two devastating explosions happened.

Patricia Jansen van Vuuren said the children’s mother, Rosetta Brits, is devastated at the loss of her four children, Jamel Eales (16) and Sebastian (14), Adrian and Gerrie Brits (10).

Jamel’s boyfriend, Ian de Lange (25), also lost his life.

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The family lives in Plantation and Adrian, Gerrie and Sebastian attended Laerskool Goudrand Primary.

Patricia explained that they were walking back from visiting Ian’s employer, who lives close to them.

“They had noticed the truck stuck under the bridge on their way home and decided to see what was happening and take photos. That’s when the explosion happened.

“Jamel, Ian and Gerrie died instantly. Sebastian was airlifted to Charlotte Maxeke and died 30 minutes after arrival  and Adrian was taken to Far East Hospital and died at 19:15 that night.”

The family discovered their loved ones were involved in the explosion when they went to the scene upon hearing the blast to go see what had happened.

“We are struggling to accept the reality that we will no longer see the children. They were so energetic, loving and happy,” she said.

“We are still arranging for their burials. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the oganisations that helped us, including the political parties.”

Anyone who wants to donate to the family can do so through the Actonville CPF or contact councillor Imtiaz Lunat on 082 560 8293.

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