Fairmont High School Students Accident: Two high-school seniors were among the four people who tragically lost their lives in a car crash over the weekend in Brackenfell.
On Saturday evening, the vehicle collided with a tree on Cecil Morgan Road and caught fire. All four victims were declared deceased at the scene, while two others were hospitalised for treatment.
Millicent Merton, spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), confirmed that two of the deceased were Fairmont High School Grade 12 learners, Perth Keaden Eksteen and Daniel Jansen van Rensburg, a former learner. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the learners who passed away this weekend following the car accident,” she said.
Fairmont High School expressed its sorrow on social media, paying tribute to the two young learners:
“We are incredibly saddened by the loss of Perth Eksteen, a vibrant and unforgettable Grade 12 student. Perth was full of energy, confidence, and spirit — never one to go unnoticed. His bold presence, sense of humour, and sharp wit left a lasting impression on both peers and teachers. He brought life into every space he entered and will be deeply missed.
“We also honour the memory of Daniel Jansen van Rensburg, a former pupil who continued to represent Fairmont with pride on the rugby field after transitioning to homeschooling. Daniel’s passion for the sport and quiet determination made him a valued teammate and friend.”
Jermaine Carelse, spokesperson for the City’s Fire and Rescue Service, reported that fire crews arrived shortly after 6 pm to find the vehicle fully engulfed in flames.
“The incident was reported around 6 pm as a motor vehicle accident with the vehicle on fire,” Carelse explained. “The Brackenfell crew arrived at 6:10 pm and found the car completely ablaze. According to the officer on scene, there were two occupants inside the vehicle upon arrival. Tragically, four people died, and two others were taken to the hospital by ambulance. The school and district have arranged counseling support for learners and staff.”
Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg confirmed that Brackenfell police have opened a culpable homicide investigation.
“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation,” Twigg said. “No arrests have been made. The injured were taken to medical facilities for treatment.”
