Five people died and 13 sustained serious injuries when a minibus travelling from the Western Cape collided with a SUV on the N9 near Graaff-Reinet this morning.

All four occupants of the SUV died, including a 11-year-old girl.

Eleven of the 13 injured people were admitted to a local hospital with serious injuries.

Eastern Cape Department of Transport Spokesperson Makhaya Komisa says an investigation is underway.

“The driver of the Toyota quantum is among those who were injured in the crash. The main cause of the collision is unknown. As authorities are currently investigating the scene, a case of culpable homicide has been opened at Graaf-Reniet Police Station,” says Komisa.

Transport MEC Xolile Nqata has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, and he has wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery