Gas tanker tragedy: Parkrand Primary mourns loss of beloved coach and his wife

Parkrand Primary is mourning the loss of its beloved athletics coach, Ndumiso Mashaba (25), described as a cornerstone member of the school.

Ndumiso and his wife, Neo (22), were among the 18 victims killed in a gas tanker explosion in Plantation on December 24.

According to the family’s spokesperson, Nellie Masango, the couple lived with Ndumiso’s elderly parents in Hospital Street, near the scene of the blast.

Speaking to the Boksburg Advertiser, Nellie remained composed as she explained that Ndumiso, Neo and his elder sister, Zutivi Mlati (33), were outside their premises on the fateful morning of the explosion to investigate what the commotion was about.

“Shortly thereafter, the explosion occurred and Ndumiso and Neo were killed,” Masango explained.

“Zutivi suffered injuries but is recovering well in hospital.”

Both families have now banded together in unity to support the Mashaba’s three-year-old son and six-month-old daughter, who have subsequently been orphaned by the tragedy.

“Our hearts are broken by the loss of our brother and sister, however, we have to stand strong in ensuring that the children are not only taken care of but surrounded by love,” Masango said.

“Zutivi’s eight-year-old son is battling with the absence of his mother and we are, therefore, doing our upmost to ensure that he also receives the nurturing care that he needs at this time.”

Brian Kotzen, HOD for discipline and sport at Parkrand Primary, further stated that Ndumiso was a well-loved and respected coach at the school.

“Whenever there was something to be done, you can be sure that Ndumiso would be the first to raise his hand to offer assistance,” said Kotzen.

“His passing will leave a huge void in our school and the lives of our learners, but we are grateful to have had a man of his stature serve on our faculty for the past three years. Our hearts go out to his family and his two children, whom he adored.”

With funeral arrangements currently being made, Masango said the family is buckling under severe financial pressure.

“The home has been severely damaged; windows have shattered and some of the ceilings have collapsed,” she said.

“However, every meal, heartfelt condolence and sincere well wishes we have received from members of the community has carried us through this incredibly difficult time.

“Now we need to focus on the children to ensure that all their needs are met to the fullest.”

The Mashaba family has established a bank account for donations towards the care of Ndumiso and Neo’s children.

Parents of Parkrand Primary as well as members of the Parkrand community are continuing to make donations towards the cause.

The banking details are: Account name: Lunghelo Ponani Lawrence Mlati, ABSA savings account 9317667623, branch code 632005, reference Ndumiso.