At least three people have tragically lost their lives after two separate accidents occurred on the R102 in the Eastern Cape on May 17.
R102 between Humansdorp and Tsitsikamma
According to the spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, Makhaya Komisa, in the first incident which took place on the R102 between Humansdorp and Tsitsikamma in the Sarah Baartman District Municipality, a white NP200 bakkie and a grey Suzuki 7-seater collided head-on.
He said that the NP200 bakkie belonged to a construction company.
“The NP200 bakkie was travelling toward Humansdorp, while the grey Suzuki 7-seater was headed in the direction of Tsitsikamma when the collision occurred,” said Komisa.
He further said that the driver in the bakkie passed away at the scene while the only other passenger in the bakkie was rushed to the hospital.
Komisa said that the driver of the Suzuki 7-seater was the only one in the vehicle and he was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.
A case of culpable homicide has been opened at Humansdorp Police Station.
R102 from Humasdorp towards Jeffreys Bay
Meanwhile, on the same day, another accident took place involving three vehicles on the R102 road in Humansdorp, heading towards Jeffreys Bay.
Komisa said that a Hyundai Elantra was stationary due to a mechanical issue, specifically a flat tyre.
He said that another vehicle, a Hyundai i10, was assisting the Elantra, with both occupants outside at the time.
Meanwhile, a Toyota Fortuner was travelling towards Jeffreys Bay with an unknown number of occupants.
“The Fortuner collided with both the Elantra and the i10, resulting in the immediate death of one pedestrian,” said Komisa.
“Another pedestrian was transported to Humansdorp Hospital after the accident but sadly passed away despite several attempts by medical personnel to save the patient’s life.”
Komisa said three additional people, including the driver of the Toyota Fortuner, sustained serious injuries at the scene and were also taken to the hospital for further medical evaluation.
He said that a case of culpable homicide has been opened at the Jeffreys Bay SAPS for further investigation.
Specifically commenting on the accident which occurred in Humansdorp, heading towards Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha has warned motorists against driving under the influence of alcohol.
He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased and wished a swift recovery to the injured passengers.
