FAMILIES broken by tragedy found strength to speak through their grief, demanding justice for 12 pupils killed in a horrific crash.
The young lives were cut short on their way to school when a heavy truck smashed into their transport on Monday, 19 January.
It's alleged the driver was trying to overtake on a barrier line when the tragedy struck.
For the family of Leano Moiloa (13), the pain is sharpened by a memory of faith.
Spokesman Bonnie Khumalo revealed that the grade 8 pupil at Vaal High School had spent her final night in prayer.
"We are very hurt. A day before Leano passed away, she prayed with her mother, not knowing it would be their last prayer," said Bonnie.
"The decisions made by the driver took her from us. All we want is justice."
At the home of Naledi Motsapi (16), the family is struggling to imagine life without her "bubbly" energy.
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Her aunt, Leah Motsapi, described the grade 10 pupil from El Shaddai Christian School as a top performer who had a bright future ahead of her.
"She was like the lastborn of the family. We were already looking forward to her matric results," Leah said.
"Right now, we want to focus on the funeral and support each other. It's hard, but we have to accept it because it's not our will."
While every home is grieving, one family is facing a double portion of agony. They lost two children in the same heartbreaking moment.
Phehello Motaung (19), a grade 11 pupil at El Shaddai, died alongside her little brother, Lesego Sefatsa (7), who was just starting his journey in Grade 2 at Oakwood Primary.
Uncle Ruben Bokgobo said the family had high hopes for Bokamoso Bokgobo (13), a grade 8 pupil at Hoërskool Vanderbijlpark.
"I raised Bokamoso, and I looked forward to seeing her succeed in life," he said through his grief. "We wish the driver could face justice."
Meanwhile, the 22-year-old driver is to appear before the court this week.
