A devastating collision between a bakkie and a truck late on Sunday evening has left the residents of Van Rhynsdorp reeling in shock and grief as 12 lives were lost, including three children.
The incident occurred around 8:05 PM on Sunday on the N7 between Klawer and Van Rhynsdorp, near Windhoek Farm, according to Reyana Steyn, a spokesperson for the provincial department of mobility.
Tragically, 11 individuals lost their lives on the spot, with another person succumbing to injuries in the hospital later.
Among the victims were three children, adding to the heartbreak of the community.
Councilor Christo Boks, deeply affected by the loss, revealed that eleven of the deceased were residents of Van Rhynsdorp, most of whom were occupants of the bakkie involved in the collision.
Read |
12 People Killed in Tragic Collision between Truck and Bus at Hex River Pass, De Doorns
Boks, who shared a neighbourhood with some of the deceased, expressed the profound grief gripping the entire community.
“When death shakes your community, it is always sad,” remarked Boks, reflecting on the tragedy that evoked memories of past losses due to accidents in May 2000 and December 2010.
“Sunday night’s accident has opened old wounds for many of the families, and our hearts go out to the loved ones affected by the accident.”
AO Joseph Swartbooi, a police spokesperson, detailed the grim scene, stating that Klawer police arrived promptly at the accident site to find two vehicles involved in a collision.
Tragically, they discovered six men and five women who had sustained fatal injuries, with all eleven victims pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have initiated a case of culpable homicide for further investigation and urge anyone with information to come forward.
Adding to the sorrow, Councilor Boks confirmed the passing of a 12th person, a woman who was initially transported to the hospital with serious injuries on Sunday evening.
Additionally, it was reported that another individual received medical treatment at the scene for minor injuries.
