Bloemfontein - A 12-year-old schoolboy died after he was struck by lightning at his Bloemfontein school, a Free State education official said on Thursday.
Spokesman Howard Ndaba said the incident happened at the Kruitberg School at 2.10pm on Wednesday.
The school immediately called an ambulance, which responded in seven minutes, but it was too late for the Grade Seven pupil identified as Kgomotso Olifant.
Ndaba said paramedics did everything possible for 45 minutes to resuscitate him but unfortunately he died on the scene.
Education MEC Tate Makgoe expressed condolences with the Olifant family and the Kruitberg School community.
School deputy principal Kobus Prinsloo described Olifant as a quiet and obedient pupil.
Ndaba said senior departmental officials would visit the school and the family on Thursday. - Sapa