Three people died in a head-on collision in the Eastern Cape in the early hours on Good Friday, with a teenager miraculously escaping from a burning vehicle.
The crash happened on the R67 between Seymour and Whittlesea at about 1am.
According to the provincial transport department, the collision involved a sport utility vehicle (SUV) and a sedan. “The SUV, carrying three occupants, caught fire after the impact,” said department spokesperson Unathi Binqose.
“Two occupants burnt in the vehicle and were declared dead at the scene.
“A 13-year-old boy, who was also in the SUV, managed to escape from the burning vehicle and was rushed to Frontier Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
“The driver of the sedan, who was alone in the vehicle, succumbed to injuries and was declared dead at the scene.”
Investigations into the cause of the crash are under way.
A case of culpable homicide has been opened.
Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha extended his condolences to the bereaved families and loved ones of the deceased and wished the injured minor a full and speedy recovery.
“This is a devastating reminder of the dangers that persist on our roads, particularly during late night and early morning travel,” Nqatha said.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of three lives under such tragic circumstances, and our thoughts are with the affected families during this difficult time.”
Nqatha urged road users to exercise extreme caution, obey the rules of the road and avoid risky behaviour that may endanger lives.
“No journey is worth a life,” he said.
The department vowed to continue intensifying road safety operations across the province as part of ongoing efforts to reduce road fatalities.
Daily Dispatch Correspondent
www.timeslive.co.za
