Man Dies After Being Run Over By eThekwini Municipal Water Tanker In Adams Mission
A 39-year-old man has died after being knocked down by an eThekwini Municipality water tanker in Adams Mission, eMbumbulu, with police opening a culpable homicide investigation.
The incident happened on Sunday, August 2, 2026, in Nkanyisweni, Ward 96, and has since sparked concern after graphic footage allegedly showing the aftermath circulated widely on social media.
Authorities have urged members of the public not to share the video out of respect for the deceased and his family.
Police Open Culpable Homicide Case
KwaZulu-Natal police confirmed that officers from Umbumbulu police station are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
According to IOL, Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the man was taken to hospital following the collision but later died from his injuries.
“Police in Umbumbulu have opened a case of culpable homicide following an incident in which a 39-year-old man was allegedly run over by a truck at Nkanyisweni on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
The victim was transported to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation,” Netshiunda said.
Municipality Launches Internal Investigation
The eThekwini Municipality confirmed that the vehicle involved was one of its water tankers and expressed its condolences to the victim’s relatives and the wider community.
The municipality said it was working with law enforcement agencies while conducting its own internal investigation into the tragedy.
“The eThekwini Municipality has noted with deep sadness a fatal incident involving a municipal water tanker in Ward 96, eMbumbulu,” the municipality said.
“One person lost their life in the incident. The Municipality extends its condolences to the family, friends and community of the deceased.”
It added that the South African Police Service had already opened a case and that officials were cooperating fully with the investigation.
Support Provided To Bereaved Family
Following the tragedy, the municipality deployed a team to Adams Mission to assist the affected family.
“A team from the Municipality has been deployed to Adams Mission to visit the affected family and provide the necessary support,” officials said.
The municipality also appealed to residents to avoid circulating images or videos linked to the incident.
“The Municipality appeals to residents and members of the public to refrain from circulating footage of the incident on social media, out of respect for the deceased and their family.”
Police investigations into the incident are continuing.