By Mapaballo Borotho
- Eight people, including two minors, have been killed in a head-on collision on the N17 toll road between Ermelo and Davel in Mpumalanga.
- Seven of the victims were occupants of a Volkswagen sedan, while the driver of a Toyota sedan was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
- Authorities say the cause of the crash is not yet known, but reckless and negligent driving cannot be ruled out.
A head-on collision between a Toyota and a Volkswagen sedan claimed eight lives on the N17 toll road between Ermelo and Davel, Mpumalanga, in the early hours of Sunday morning.
According to Mpumalanga’s Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, the deceased include two minors and six adults.
Seven of the victims were occupants of the Volkswagen sedan, while the eighth victim was the driver of the Toyota sedan, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash.
No further injuries were recorded.
“The cause is unknown at this point; however, reckless and negligent driving cannot be ruled out. An investigation has already commenced,” said the department’s spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi.
MEC urges motorists to exercise caution
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie has again urged motorists to exercise greater caution on the road.
“Motorists must obey the rules of the road and adjust their driving in line with prevailing weather and road conditions. Greater vigilance is a must, especially when visibility is affected,” Macie stated.
Macie also sent his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
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