Heartbreak at Falcon College: Upper Sixth Student Dies in Bus Accident
A tragic incident has struck the Falcon College community, leaving one student dead and several others injured. On the 16th of June 2024, a bus carrying 56 students from Falcon College overturned on the notorious stretch of road known as ‘Danger’ near Esigodini. The students were returning from a rugby tournament at St George’s College in Harare when the accident occurred, just 20 kilometres from their school.
The Victim
Falcon College has identified the deceased student as Aidan O’Donovan, an upper-sixth student from Tredgold House. The announcement was made in a heartfelt letter to parents and guardians by Mr Phillip Whaley, Chairman of the Board of Governors.
He wrote,
“It is with deepest sadness that I write to advise you of the passing of Aidan O’Donovan. There are no adequate words at a time like this, and we are all deeply affected.”
Injuries and Immediate Response
Three students were rushed to Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo. Among them, Bradley Wentzel sustained a broken arm and is currently being treated with his parents by his side. Several other students and staff suffered minor cuts and injuries and are also receiving treatment at the hospital.
Mr Whaley confirmed,
“Bradley Wentzel suffered a broken arm and is at the Mater Dei hospital in Bulawayo with his parents. There are a few children and staff with minor cuts and injuries. They are also at the Mater Dei being treated and checked out.”
Support for the Affected Families
In an effort to support the grieving family, Falcon College has chartered a flight for Aidan O’Donovan’s parents, who are currently en route to Bulawayo. Mr Whaley expressed the community’s solidarity, stating,
“Please keep the O’Donovan family, and everyone who loved Aidan in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”
Falcon College’s Full Statement On Tragic Bus Accident
Dear Falcon Parents and Guardians,
Following the initial communication sent out, it is with deepest sadness that I write to advise you of the passing of Aidan O’Donovan (Upper Sixth, Tredgold) in the bus accident this afternoon. There are no adequate words at a time like this, and we are all deeply affected.
We have chartered a flight for Aidan and Lana’s parents, and they are en route to Bulawayo now. Please keep the O’Donovan family, and everyone who loved Aidan in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
Bradley Wentzel suffered a broken arm and is at the Mater Dei hospital in Bulawayo with his parents. There are a few children and staff with minor cuts and injuries. They are also at the Mater Dei being treated and checked out.
Mr Kirkman will issue a further statement as soon as possible.
We appreciate that many of you will want to send condolences and messages to Mr Kirkman and the O’Donovan family. You are welcome to channel these through [email protected] and [email protected] while the family and Headmaster deal with this tragedy.
Yours sincerely,
Mr Phillip Whaley
Chairman of the Board of Governors
Mr Kirkman, Headmaster of Falcon College, is expected to issue a further statement soon. In the meantime, the school has opened channels for condolences and messages of support, which can be sent to [email protected] and [email protected].
Community in Mourning
The tragic accident has left the Falcon College community in mourning, grappling with the loss of a beloved student and the injuries sustained by others. The road known as ‘Danger’ has once again lived up to its name, casting a shadow over what should have been a day of sporting celebration.
As the community rallies together, Mr Whaley’s closing words resonate deeply: “We are all deeply affected. Your support and prayers are invaluable during this time of sorrow.”
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