PEDDIE, Eastern Cape – Five people have died in a crash involving a bakkie and a long-distance bus on the N2 near Peddie this morning, 15 June.

The Eastern Cape Department of Transport confirmed that four people were initially declared dead when emergency services arrived at the scene.

The accident occurred at about 07:30.

“A fifth occupant later succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at the scene, bringing the total number of fatalities to five,” the department said.

The department added that all the deceased were travelling in the bakkie, which had five occupants in total – three males and two females.

It further noted that the sixth occupant of the bakkie sustained critical injuries and was transported to hospital for medical treatment.

According to the department: “The bus, which was travelling from the Eastern Cape to Cape Town, was carrying passengers at the time of the collision.

“The driver was treated for shock, while a number of passengers received medical attention for minor injuries and trauma.”

The department said the circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation.

“A case of culpable homicide has been opened at Peddie SAPS.

“The department extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased and wishes the injured person a speedy recovery,” the statement added.