21 People Killed, Several Injured In Horror Crash Between Prince Albert And Leeu-Gamka
In a tragic development, 21 people have died in a devastating crash on South Africa’s N1 in the Western Cape, with several others sustaining serious injuries.
The collision happened between Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka in the early hours of Monday, about 380 kilometres from Cape Town, leaving emergency teams dealing with a major recovery and rescue operation.
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Three Vehicles Involved
According to IOL, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said the crash involved two minibus taxis and an SUV.
According to the Western Cape Mobility Department, the incident began when the two taxis collided head-on before the third vehicle crashed into them.
Three of those involved were taken to hospital but were pronounced dead after arrival.
The exact circumstances leading to the collision have not yet been established.
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said investigators were still working to determine what caused the deadly crash.
“This is a developing incident. Further information will be provided as it becomes available and is verified,” Zwane said.
Authorities have also cautioned that the number of fatalities could change as emergency personnel continue assessing the scene.
Road Closed After Deadly Collision
The scale of the crash has prompted the continued closure of the affected section of the N1 as emergency and traffic teams work at the scene.
Western Cape MEC for Mobility Isaac Sileku described the incident as a devastating loss of life and said authorities were dealing with difficult conditions at the crash site.
“Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives in this tragic collision. Our traffic and emergency response teams are working tirelessly at the scene under challenging conditions. Because of the seriousness of the crash, the road will remain closed for some time,” Sileku said.
Sileku is expected to visit the site to receive an update from traffic officials and emergency medical personnel.
Focus Turns To Survivors
While the death toll continues to dominate the aftermath, health authorities are also attending to those who survived the collision and were injured.
Western Cape MEC for Health and Wellness Mireille Wenger said medical teams were focused on caring for the injured while families come to terms with the sudden loss of their loved ones.
“We are devastated by the loss of multiple lives following this serious collision on the N1. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones who have lost someone in this tragedy. No words can ease the pain of such a sudden and devastating loss, and we hold them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Cause Still Under Investigation
RTMC crash investigators are continuing with their assessment to establish how the collision occurred.
Authorities have not yet attributed the crash to a specific cause, and the circumstances remain under investigation.
The RTMC said further details would be released once information from the scene had been verified.