Two families are grieving after an eight-year-old schoolgirl and a 34-year-old woman were killed after being struck by trains in two separate Western Cape incidents a day apart
Ruche Basson, a Grade 2 learner at Vlottenburg Primary School in Stellenbosch, was on her way home from school on Tuesday afternoon when she was struck by a train at Lynedoch train station.
The eight-year-old was struck at about 2.18pm on August 25 and was declared dead at the scene.
Provincial police spokesperson Thembakazi Mpendukana said: “A culpable homicide case has been opened at Stellenbosch SAPS on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
“This follows an accident whereby an eight-year-old girl was hit by a train after school, at around 2.18pm and was declared deceased on the crime scene by medical personnel. Investigation continues and no arrest has been made.”
Vlottenburg Primary School paid tribute to Ruche in a Facebook post.
The school said: “With deep sadness, we say goodbye to one of our beloved learners, Ruche Basson [in] Grade 2 from Vlottenburg Primary, who passed away [on Tuesday].
“Our hearts are broken and our thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones, classmates and the entire Vlottenburg Primary and Lynedoch community during this incredibly difficult time.
“May the beautiful memories of her always live in our hearts. May God grant her family strength, comfort and peace in the days that lie ahead.
“Rest easy, dear angel. You will always be part of the Vlottenburg family. Our deepest sympathy to the family.”
The following afternoon, a 34-year-old woman was struck by a train while attempting to cross the tracks at a railway station in Newlands.
The incident happened at about 4.05pm on Wednesday, August 26.
A picture showed the woman’s body beside the train tracks as authorities attended the scene.
Provincial police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala said: “This office confirms that Claremont police opened a case of culpable homicide following an accident that occurred at a railway station in Newlands on Wednesday, August 26 2026, at about 4.05pm.
“According to reports, a 34-year-old woman was struck by a train while attempting to cross on the train tracks. She was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel.”
Marsha Dean
iol.co.za