I am deeply saddened by the news of a horrific crash that claimed the lives of five people on the N1 between Beaufort West and Leeu Gamka this morning.
The crash happened when a light motor vehicle collided with a heavy motor vehicle on the gravel road running alongside the railway line.
According to reports from traffic officers at the scene, the light motor vehicle with six occupants drove straight under the fully loaded trailer of the heavy motor vehicle that was departing from a laybay, resulting in the vehicle being trapped under the truck.
Five occupants including two children aged ten and 11 were certified dead at the scene. The sixth occupant has been transported to hospital for medical treatment. I would like to express my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wish the injured passenger a speedy recovery.
The N1 remains closed as authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.
I urge everyone using our road network to play a role in road safety for all road users. Motorists are to be vigilant at all times, adhere to the speed limit and take regular rest stops every 200km or 2 hours.
Media queries:
Rebecca Campbell
Spokesperson for Minister Ricardo Mackenzie
Ministry of Mobility
Cell: 076 783 2583