The tragic accident on the R40 near Hoedspruit, which claimed the lives of 13 people on Saturday morning, remains under investigation as authorities work to identify the victims through DNA testing.
Following our initial report on this devastating collision, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa have expressed their condolences to the affected families and communities.
The ministers acknowledged the pain of losing loved ones in such a horrific manner and commended emergency responders, forensic teams, and law enforcement for their swift action.
The crash, which involved a double cab bakkie travelling from Hoedspruit to Acornhoek and a minibus heading in the opposite direction, resulted in an intense fire that severely burned the victims, making visual identification impossible.
Forensic teams have begun the DNA identification process to confirm the identities of the deceased.
While authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the crash, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) continues its investigation.
The Transport Ministry has reiterated the importance of road safety, urging drivers to obey speed limits, remain focused, avoid driving under the influence, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.
13 people were killed when a minibus taxi collided with a double cab bakkie on the R40 in Hoedspruit area… https://t.co/i9mjIGahq1 pic.twitter.com/EdCJdxOzfU
— SA Trucker (@rsa_trucker) February 8, 2025
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