Two high-school seniors were among the four people killed in a tragic car crash over the weekend in Brackenfell.
On Saturday evening, the four victims were declared deceased after their vehicle crashed into a tree in Cecil Morgan Road and caught fire, while two other victims were taken to hospital for medical treatment.
Spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), Millicent Merton, confirmed two of the victims involved in the crash were identified as Fairmont High School Grade 12 learner Perth Keaden Eksteen and former learner Daniel Jansen van Rensburg.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the learners who passed away this weekend following a car accident."
Fairmont High School took to their social media to extend their condolences and acknowledge the passing of the two young learners.
They wrote: “We are incredibly saddened by the loss of Perth Eksteen, a vibrant and unforgettable Grade 12 student.
"Perth was full of energy, confidence and spirit. Never one to go unnoticed. His bold presence, sense of humour and sharp wit left a lasting impression on his peers and teachers alike. He brought life into every space he entered and will be sorely missed.
"We also honour the memory of Daniel Jansen van Rensburg, a past pupil who continuous to profoundly represent Fairmont on the rugby field after transitioning to homeschooling. Daniel's passion for the sport and his quiet determination made him a valued teammate and friend.
Jermaine Carelse, spokesperson for the City’s Fire and Rescue Service, said the fire crew arrived at the scene around 6pm where they found the vehicle engulfed in flames.
He explained: “The incident was reported at around 6pm as a motor vehicle accident and the vehicle had burst into flames. The Brackenfell crew arrived at 6:10 and found the vehicle totally engulfed in flames. According to reports from the officer at the scene there were two persons in the vehicle when they arrived on scene. A total of four persons died and two others were taken to hospital by ambulance. The school and the district arranged counselling support for learners and staff.”
Police spokesperson, Wesley Twigg, said Brackenfell police registered a culpable homicide case for investigation.
Twigg said: “The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation and no one was arrested. The injured victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment."
Cape Argus
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