VREDENBURG – The depth of the parent’s grief was evident as she struggled to find the words to describe the loss of her child.

Namhla Rangayi (29) has to navigate through this world after losing her only child in a collision between a train and a vehicle at a railway.

Captain Tania Helfrich, district spokesperson for the West Coast Police, confirmed that Linathi Rangayi (7) died on Monday 20 July during a collision between a train and a bakkie around 15:30 at the railway line in Vredenburg.

It seems the child was in the back of the bakkie at the time of the accident, but Helfrich said the circumstances around the incident are still being investigated.

According to Namhla, receiving the news was difficult and its still difficult to process.

She describes her son as a happy and kind child. Although words were little through her grief, she said he will truly be missed.

His Grade 1 teacher Jannike van Schalkwyk, said there are some children who leave footprints on our hearts that never fade and they will remember a ittle boy who brought so much joy, laughter, and light to the classroom.

“Though his time with us was far too short, he will always remain a cherished part of our Jurie Hayes Primary family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest peacefully, sweet boy. You will always hold a special place in our hearts,” she added.

His Grade 2 teacher Ottilie Kahunga, said Linathi will always be remembered as a kind, hardworking, and dedicated learner.

“He displayed remarkable leadership qualities and proudly served as one of my very first line leaders. He approached every task with care and intention, and his handwriting was among the neatest and most beautiful in the class. His bright smile brought warmth to the classroom, and his commitment to his schoolwork was truly inspiring. It was a privilege to have taught him, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever.”

Norman van Wyk, a community leader and activist, shared there has been major concern about the railway line running through Ongegund, Witteklip and Louw- ville for years and has been raised to departments. “We’ve for decades complained to Transnet about proper controlled pedestrian crossings. We have suggested building footbridges and installing an electrified fence all along the railway line. And to date nothing has happened. This is not the first accident or fatality there, and because the railway lines are not secured, it’s not safe. Children and the public cross the railway line daily.”

Van Wyk said the best would be for Transnet to make the railway safe.

According to Transnet, Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) confirms that an incident occurred at a level crossing on 20 July, near the Langeenheid halt near an informal settlement in the Vredenburg area, involving a Transnet Freight Rail train and a third-party vehicle.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that the incident resulted in the tragic loss of life of a minor. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this devastating event. Emergency response teams and the relevant authorities attended the scene immediately, and the necessary incident management processes were activated.

“The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders. The safety of rail operations and all road users remain a top priority for Transnet. We urge motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution at level crossings and to comply with all road traffic signs.”

Transnet added that the investigation is ongoing and further details will be provided when it becomes available.