Bus carrying Latter-day Saints involved in fatal crash in Africa
Jun 21, 2025, 8:18 PM
In this photo taken Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014 a man walks down a road from Gates of Paradise pass near the village of Malealea in the mountains of Lesotho on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014. (AP Photo/Christopher Torchia)
(AP Photo/Christopher Torchia)
SALT LAKE CITY — A minibus carrying members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and others crashed in the Kingdom of Lesotho over the weekend, killing several people and injuring others, the Church confirmed Saturday.
It was not immediately known how many people were killed, or whether church members on board were among them.
The Church said in a press release that the bus was carrying local Church leaders and young women to a youth activity when it was involved in a multi-vehicle crash.
The Africa South Area Presidency issued the following message after the incident:
“Our hearts are heavy, and we are saddened by this tragic accident. We extend our love and heartfelt condolences to the many families and friends who have been impacted by this tragedy. We mourn the lives of those who have passed, and we pray that we may all feel the love, peace and healing power of the Lord Jesus Christ, during this difficult time.”
The Church said leaders were “actively ministering to the affected individuals and families, offering spiritual and emotional support, as well as coordinating care for the injured.”
Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles also posted his condolences on social media:
The Church has 1,890 members in the small southern African nation.
This is a breaking news story. It may be updated as more details are available.
