10 Latter-day Saints killed in bus crash in Africa
Jun 21, 2025, 6:03 PM | Updated: Jun 23, 2025, 4:55 pm
FILE — Police emergency lights. (KSL TV)
(KSL TV)
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.
On Monday, the church said 11 Latter-day Saints were killed in the crash, which included nine young women and two adults.
“Nearly a dozen and a half others sustained injuries,” the church said in a statement.
The church said that the bus was carrying local church leaders and young women ages 12 to 17 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.
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