Johannesburg 'train surfers' hospitalised

06 July 2016 - 15:36 By TMG Digital

Two teenagers were left in a critical condition after they were allegedly train surfing near Riverlea train station in the west of Johannesburg‚ ER24 said on Wednesday. ER24 paramedics were called out at 7.30pm on Tuesday. They were escorted by members of the community to the train tracks‚ where they found a 17-year-old teenager unconscious with severe injuries.Another teenager (16)‚ managed to walk to a nearby house to call for help. He sustained major cuts to his abdomen and was in a serious condition.Paramedics initiated advanced life support treatment on the 17-year-old and later rushed him to Helen Joseph Hospital for further care. The 16-year-old was stabilised on the scene and rushed through to Life Fourways Hospital."The 16-year-old teenager stated that they were allegedly robbed and thrown off the train‚ however‚ members of the community stated that they saw people earlier standing on top of the train‚" ER24 said. "Some of the community members indicated that they heard a loud bang and immediately electricity in the nearby vicinity went off. They believe it came from the station when one of the train surfers allegedly collided with overhead power cables."Police are investigating.ER24 thanked concerned citizens who assisted‚ stating: "Members of the community were extremely helpful on the scene as many of them provided first aid prior to the arrival of paramedics"...

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.