Young crash survivor ‘responsive’ after tragic family loss

Twelve people were killed including a Michaelhouse pupil and his parents in a collision on the R622 Greytown Road on Saturday. Picture: Midlands EMS.

Twelve people were killed including a Michaelhouse pupil and his parents in a collision on the R622 Greytown Road on Saturday. Picture: Midlands EMS.

Published Sep 2, 2024

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Durban — The pupil who survived the crash that killed his parents and brother is responsive.

That was according to a joint statement issued by Durban Preparatory High School (DPHS) and Michaelhouse.

In the statement, DPHS headmaster Grant Phipson and Michaelhouse rector Antony Clark said as they mourn the loss of Garth (Michaelhouse Grade 8) and his parents Olivia and Gareth Finnemore, on Saturday, August 31, their communities have received overwhelming support.

As school communities, they would like to extend their condolences to Garth’s family and friends.

“We have been notified that Harry Finnemore (DPHS Grade 6) underwent major surgery on Saturday evening. Harry has been responsive and has been making encouraging strides in his recovery. The medical team is hopeful, but given the severity of his injuries, he remains in a critical yet stable condition,” the statement read.

“Our boys at both schools continue to receive support from our staff and the communities.

“We will continue to pray for Harry’s recovery and the family and friends of the Finnemores,” concluded the statement.

Meanwhile, Wembley College Greytown on Facebook, said: “Wembley College deeply mourns for the family who were in the tragic accident on the way back from the Wembley College 7s tournament today (Saturday). Our hearts are heavy with grief as we extend our sincerest condolences to the family and friends affected by this devastating event.

“We want to express our profound sympathy to the Michaelhouse and DPHS communities. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this incredibly difficult time.

“With deepest sympathy and support, Wembley College.”

Over the weekend, Midlands EMS spokesperson Roland Robertson said their crews were dispatched to the R622 Greytown Road following a head-on collision.

“Upon arrival, crews were met with a horrific scene. Eleven people showed no signs of life and were declared deceased on the scene,” Robertson said.

“A 12-year-old male, the sole survivor from one of the vehicles, was found in critical condition. He was placed on a manual ventilator at the scene and rushed to a specialist hospital for further care.

“Another person also sustained serious injuries and required urgent medical attention.”

The death toll has since risen to 12.

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