The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that a person has died following an incident involving one of its water tankers in Adams Mission, Ward 96, eMbumbulu, on Monday morning.
The confirmation comes after a graphic video circulated widely on social media, showing what appeared to be a man being struck and run over by a municipal water tanker during a confrontation involving members of the public.
In a statement issued on Monday, 3 August 2026, the Municipality expressed its condolences to the family, friends and community of the deceased.
“The eThekwini Municipality has noted with deep sadness a fatal incident involving a municipal water tanker in Ward 96, eMbumbulu, this morning. One person lost their life in the incident. The Municipality extends its condolences to the family, friends and community of the deceased.”
The Municipality confirmed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened a case and that investigations into the incident are underway.
It added that it is fully cooperating with SAPS while also conducting its own internal processes. However, the Municipality said it is unable to comment on the circumstances surrounding the incident while investigations continue.
A municipal team has also been deployed to Adams Mission to visit the deceased’s family and provide the necessary support.
The widely shared video appears to show a water tanker surrounded by members of the public before it begins moving. During the incident, a man is seen approaching the truck and is subsequently struck. The footage has sparked widespread reaction on social media, with many users calling for a thorough investigation into the actions of everyone involved.
At this stage, the circumstances leading up to the incident, including what prompted the confrontation, remain unclear. Investigators are expected to examine the full sequence of events, witness statements, available video footage and any other evidence to determine exactly what happened.
The Municipality has appealed to members of the public to refrain from circulating the graphic video out of respect for the deceased and his family.
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