By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
A freak accident claimed the lives of 15 people when the trailer of a truck hit a fully loaded minibus taxi on the bypass on the N9/N10 near Middelburg on July 2.
Provincial Traffic spokersperson Unathi Binqose says the accident happened on the N9 near Middelburg at about 11 pm on Sunday.
He says the driver of a heavy-duty truck lost control after hitting a stray animal and when he tried to regain control, his trailer fell over.
Binqose said a fully loaded taxi, driving in the opposite direction, collided with the trailer at this exact time.
He says all the occupants of the minibus taxi, including the driver died on the scene.
Among the victims were nine females and five men.
Binqose says a two-month-old baby and a toddler were also killed while the truck driver escaped with minor injuries.
The taxi was travelling from the Eastern Cape to the Western Cape.
The victims’ names can only be released once their next of kin has been informed.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu said the police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene extended her sympathy to the families of the devastating crash victims.
“SAPS management in the Eastern Cape is deeply sorry for the loss of so many lives. The loss of loved ones in such a sudden and tragic manner is truly devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families as they navigate through this unimaginable grief,” said Mene.