A family is outraged at the culpable homicide charge against an accused after a teen was killed in a car accident during a coming-of-age ritual.
A joyous traditional celebration in Dinwiddie, Germiston turned to tragedy last weekend when a 68-year-old motorist struck and killed 13-year-old teen, Thando Pretty Mahlangu during an umhlonyane ceremony.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Eyewitness accounts reveal the driver allegedly ignored requests to avoid the procession where young women were participating in cultural rites. Event organizer Simphiwe Khumalo stated he had positioned vehicles to safely redirect traffic when the elderly woman insisted on driving through.
ALSO READ: TV Star Ayanda Thabethe Ties the Knot With Business Mogul Peter Matsimbe
“I attempted to physically stop her vehicle, but she accelerated toward the performers. The children couldn’t see the danger as they were focused on their ceremony,” Khumalo recounted.
According to witnesses, the vehicle struck Thando twice before the driver left the scene. Authorities later confirmed the motorist reported to police, claiming she was fleeing attackers when the collision occurred.
Teen Killed In Car Accident In Coming-of-age ritual
The Mahlangu family expressed dissatisfaction with the culpable homicide charge and the suspect’s subsequent release on R5,000 bail. Thando’s uncle Mzwandile Soyaya questioned the official narrative:
“The driver’s version contradicts multiple eyewitness accounts. We believe this deserves a murder investigation, not just culpable homicide.”
Thando, a member of the Mamello Theatre Production company, was remembered as an exceptional performer with international potential. Artistic director Sipho Dlamini paid tribute:
“Her dedication to dance and theater was extraordinary. This vibrant young artist had the talent to grace global stages and screens.”
ALSO READ: Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi Exposes Alleged Network of Corruption Linking Politicians and Law Enforcement
Legal Proceedings Face Delays
Gauteng police confirmed the suspect’s arrest but confusion surrounds the court schedule. The National Prosecuting Authority provided no clarity when contacted about the case status.
The tragedy has sparked discussions about road safety during cultural events and proper legal responses to fatal collisions involving pedestrians.