KZN road tragedy: 11 dead after trucker driver allegedly made an illegal U-turn

ELEVEN people, including a school pupil, have died in a catastrophic collision between a truck and minibus taxi in Lotus Park, Isipingo.

KZN Transport MEC Siboniso Duma has launched a full investigation after witnesses claimed the truck driver made an illegal U-turn, while also noting both vehicles had safety violations.

Duma, arrived at the scene soon after the deadly crash.

The crash, described by officials as horrific, left a trail of destruction along the roadside. Eleven bodies were seen lying covered as they awaited the arrival of pathology vans, while emergency teams worked tirelessly to rescue survivors. 

At the time of reporting, a heavy-duty tow truck was attempting to pull away the truck involved in the accident in a desperate effort to free the taxi driver, who is alive.

According to MEC Duma, the preliminary findings painted a grim picture.

“According to a preliminary report from our dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate, unfortunately 11 people, including a pupil, have died in this horrific accident. Six other people were seriously injured and have been taken to the nearest hospital,” said Duma.

He noted that the tragedy came shortly after the province recorded encouraging road safety statistics.

“This accident has occurred after we recorded a historic 18% decrease in fatalities during the festive season. We wish to extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims,” Duma said.

He added that his office had already taken steps to support the affected families.

“I have assigned a team from my office to locate the families of the victims. We will do everything in our power to ensure that they receive the necessary support,” he said.

Initial accounts from witnesses suggested dangerous driving could have played a role in the collision.

“Witnesses have alleged that the truck driver made a U-turn resulting in a head-on collision,” Duma explained.

As a result, a full investigation has been launched.

“It is for these reasons I have mandated the RTI team to work with Durban Metro Police and SAPS as part of an investigation. We want to establish the cause of this accident,” he said.

Duma also raised concerns about the roadworthiness of the vehicles involved and possible overloading.

“The driver of the truck just swerved but it may be for a different reason. I have already witnessed that the truck’s tyres were worn, unfortunately both the back and front. The taxi was also overloaded; instead of having 15 passengers, they had 17, which also was not warranted,” said Duma.

POST