The family of renowned South African dancer and rapper Dugulth ‘Junior King’ Ferreira has confirmed his sudden and untimely death.
The 29-year-old was killed in a head-on collision between a truck and a sedan on the N1 near Verkeerdevlei in the Free State at around 7.25am this morning.
The family released an official statement Thursday afternoon after unconfirmed rumors circulated on social media earlier in the day.
Lucinda Windvogel, who released the statement on behalf of the family, wrote: “It is with great sadness that we, the family of Dugulth Ferreira, known to many as Junior King, announce his passing early this morning following a tragic accident on the N1.
“Junior King was a beloved son, father, brother and artist whose talent and energy touched countless lives.”
The statement confirmed that two of his children, who were in King’s vehicle at the time of the accident, were safe, and reported on the status of the two other passengers.
“While we grieve deeply, we want to reassure the public that his children are safe.
“The other two passengers involved in the accident are currently in the hospital and we ask that you keep them in your prayers as they recover,” the post said.
The family said they are humbled by the outpouring of love and tributes from fans, friends and fellow artists across South Africa and asked for privacy during their time of mourning.
“His legacy as a performer and cultural voice will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
“We kindly ask for privacy during this time of mourning, and we thank everyone for their continued support and compassion.”
In a statement, police said emergency services were activated at 7.25am this morning following a head-on collision between a light truck and a sedan on the N1 near Verkeerdevlei.
Spokesman Lt. Col. Thabo Covane said emergency responders discovered upon arrival that the two vehicles had collided head-on, resulting in one fatality, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to Covane, three “moderately injured” persons were transported to Pelonomi Trauma in Bloemfontein for further treatment.
“The report from the emergency services shows that the Gray Volkswagen Polo TSI drove on the southbound lane towards Bloemfontein, while the truck drove on the northbound lane towards Winburg.
“There were four passengers and the driver in the Volkswagen Polo. The deceased was sitting with two children behind the driver. The two children were rushed to hospital along with the front passenger.
Both the driver of the Volkswagen Polo and the truck escaped unharmed.
“Police visited the family members at the hospital and it was confirmed by the sister that the deceased is Dugulth Darian Denver Ferreira (29),” Covane said in his statement.
The SAPS extended its condolences to the family and confirmed that a case of wrongful death had been opened for investigation.
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