LIMPOPO – A GR 9 learner from Manaledzi High School died on his way to school last Wednesday after being hit by a speeding motorist.
According to an eyewitness, the deceased boy who was identified as Dakalo Phaladi (14) from Ravele, was walking next to the road with a group of other learners from other schools when the vehicle approached them at high speed.
The driver seemingly lost control of his vehicle and ploughed into a group of children, hitting only Dakalo. He died on the scene.
Limpopo police spokesperson Lt Col Malesela Ledwaba urged motorists again to be extra cautious when driving. He condemned any form of reckless driving, especially speeding by drivers along the roads. “The cause of this accident is still not clear at this stage. A case of culpable homicide was opened, and investigations continue,” said Ledwaba.
Dakalo’s mother, Mpho Tshaduli, said the family was still trying to recover from the shock. “God only knows why this happened. It is very painful to lose a child like this.”
The principal of Manaledzi High School, Dr Samuel Tshigomana, said the school was deeply saddened by the incident. He expressed his sincere condolences to the bereaved family.
“Dakalo was a bright learner who was serious about his education. We will, as a matter of urgency, dispatch a team of professionals to the school to give counselling to the kids who are traumatised,” he said.
The chairperson of the Sinthumule Traditional Council, Makhado Sinthumule, described the incident as a tragedy.
He said he had been complaining about speeding vehicles in the area for some time now. “We are greatly saddened that another innocent life has been lost in this way,” he said.
Dakalo was buried at Ravele on Saturday, May 20.
