Bisho – At least four people died Friday when a shop collapsed on them in Ngcobo, Eastern Cape.
“A further 13 people have been rushed to All Saints Hospital, where they are being treated for various injuries,” the Eastern Cape Department of Health said in a terse statement.
Emergency medical services personnel and other rescue workers were carrying out a search and rescue mission.
Curious onlookers have gathered near the collapsed shop.
“We send our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. More details will be provided in due course,” the department said.
Hours later, the department said a hospitalised person had succumbed to their injuries, bringing to five the number of deceased from the incident.
Emergency medical services personnel and other rescue workers were alerted to the collapsed shop wall just before 13:00 today and worked until around 18:00 looking for survivors.
Local authorities said after several hours of searching for survivors of the Ngcobo tragedy, the search and rescue operation has been completed.
Five others, who were admitted at All Saints Hospital in Ngcobo, have been transferred to a high level of care at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha.
The hospitalised persons suffered various injuries including spinal injuries, head injuries, pelvic fractures, and a fractured leg, and pelvis.
Eight people were treated and discharged while two are still receiving care at All Saints Hospital.
Eastern Cape MEC for Health, Nomakhosazana Meth has sent condolences to the families of the deceased.
“It’s a sad day for the people of Ngcobo, Chris Hani, and the Eastern Cape. ‘Tutwini’ to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragedy. May their souls rest in peace,” MEC Meth said.
“We want to also thank our EMS crews and other first responders for their great work in looking for survivors and ensuring that many lives were saved.
“Without their efforts, many people could have died.”
The reason for the shop collapse is under investigation.