DESPATCH – The deaths of Tiaan van Heerden and Anka van Schalkwyk have left their former schools mourning after a fatal bakkie crash in Despatch in the early hours of 22 August.

Van Heerden was a former Hoërskool Kirkwood learner and captain of the school’s first rugby team, while Van Schalkwyk matriculated from Hoërskool Despatch in 2025.

Eastern Cape Department of Transport spokesperson Makhaya Komisa said a single LDV bakkie lost control and overturned in Despatch at 02:18 on 22 August.

He said there were three passengers in the vehicle.

“A 21-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman were declared dead at the scene by Gardmed Ambulance Service,” said Komisa.

He also said a 20-year-old man was transported to Netcare Cuyler Hospital.

Hoërskool Kirkwood described Van Heerden as a “friendly and hardworking young man”.

The school said it was “with great sadness” that it bid farewell to the former learner, who matriculated in 2023 and captained its first rugby team.

Hoërskool Despatch also expressed its condolences to the Van Schalkwyk family.

“It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of one of our 2025 matriculants, Anka van Schalkwyk,” the school said.

“Our deepest condolences to the Van Schalkwyk family during this sad and difficult time.”

The school added: “We are praying for you and ask that you experience God’s comfort and presence during this time.”

Van Heerden’s celebration of life will take place on 29 August at 10:00 at Kirkwood NG Kerk, while details about Van Schalkwyk’s funeral or celebration of life have not yet been made public.

According to a report by Briefly News, Van Heerden and Van Schalkwyk were a couple and had been together for nearly two years.

The report said they shared a deep love for sport, with Van Schalkwyk playing hockey and Van Heerden playing rugby.

They reportedly first met at a rugby match in December 2024.

Komisa urged motorists to take care on the roads.

“Our message as the department is that we continue to encourage motorists to obey the rules of the road,” said Komisa.

“Some of these accidents that have happened in the province could have been avoided had our motorists reduced speed and adhered to the rules of the road.”

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