Kimberley - A nine-year-old Kimberley girl was killed while crossing the road after she relieved herself along the train tracks behind a pile of stones.
According to family members, there are no toilets at the shanty where she lived. She was apparently on her way back home after making use of a makeshift toilet when she was killed.
Although she was knocked down at around 9am, according to witnesses she was “still alive and breathing”. However, when the ambulance eventually arrived at 2pm she was dead.
Diteboho Damane was hit by a yellow Toyota Tazz while crossing Dutch Reformed Road in Diamond Park, Greenpoint, on Saturday morning.
Police spokesman Lieutenant Sergio Kock said the accident occurred at about 11.20am when the child died on the scene. Family members, however, said the accident happened at around 9am.
One family member, Lehlohonolo Rantho, said that the vehicle that knocked down his niece was speeding and made little effort to slow down.
“Her shoes were found a few metres from her body. She was still alive and breathing for a long time. The accident took place at about 9am and she died before the ambulance arrived just before 2pm.”
According to Justina Molapho, her granddaughter had sustained head injuries.
“Her mother was standing over her as she screamed for help and had to watch while she died. There was blood oozing out of her mouth and head. She would have lived if the ambulance arrived sooner.”
The girl’s mother was crying uncontrollably after her daughter’s body was taken away by forensic officials.
Nicolene Nicklaas, who rents a shanty to the family, said they moved in about three months ago.
She explained that they had to make use of the area behind the stones to relieve themselves as there was no flushing toilet or bucket system.
“At night I make use of an enamel bucket as it is too dangerous to go outside in the dark.”
Lulu Mxekezo, spokeswoman for the Department of Health, conveyed the department’s deepest condolences to the bereaved family.
“An investigation will be launched into the alleged late arrival of an ambulance and appropriate steps will be taken upon finalisation of the investigation. We are committed to delivering quality health services to our communities,” said Mxekezo.
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