Gallery Update
KNYSNA NEWS - Despite rumours on social media that a bus that caught fire on the N2 yesterday was petrol bombed, Knysna Police have stated that there is no indication of any foul play.
The bus, with tourists from Wilderness, had caught fire around midday yesterday, 10 September, on the N2 outside Knysna after making a stop in town for an excursion.
The bus was on its way to Plettenberg Bay when the driver noticed smoke coming from the engine, just as they were passing the Lamco Service Station in Hornlee.
The driver stopped the bus about 200m after the intersection and immediately evacuated all passengers.
The passengers were immediately moved onto the embankment next to the road, far enough away from the bus to avoid any harm.
Knysna Fire & Rescue was called immediately to extinguish the fire, and by the time firefighters arrived, all the passengers were safely off the bus.
The fire had started in the engine, and the subsequent blaze led to two of the windows on the bus breaking from the heat; but luckily none of the tyres burst, making life a little easier for firefighters as there was no excess rubber to be cleared.
The road was temporarily closed by Knysna Traffic Department, and gradually reopened one lane at a time.
Knysna Police were also called to the scene to help ensure the safety of all the passengers.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies later confirmed to Knysna-Plett Herald that it was an engine fire, and that there was no evidence of any foul play. He added that there is certainly no evidence of a petrol-bombing of any sort.
He also commended the driver’s swift reaction to the smoke, and ensuring that everyone got off the bus safely.
The passengers later continued their journey when they were picked up by other transport organised by the company.
Read a previous article: Traffic affected after bus burns on N2
'We bring you the latest Knysna, Garden Route news'
