Emergency services are currently on the scene of a major road incident on the N3 Pinetown-bound carriageway just before the Mariannhill Toll Plaza, where a truck reportedly lost control and crashed into road workers on the side of the highway before plunging down an embankment.
According to ALS Paramedics, who arrived on scene moments after the crash, two people have been confirmed dead. Their identities have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
Initial information indicates that the heavy vehicle veered out of its lane under unknown circumstances, striking workers who are believed to have been conducting maintenance activities along the roadway. The truck then careered off the freeway and descended down a steep embankment, coming to rest several metres below the road surface.
Paramedics from ALS Paramedics and other responding services attempted to stabilise injured personnel at the scene. However, two individuals succumbed to their injuries and were declared dead on arrival. Further patients are still being assessed, and the total number of injured has not yet been confirmed.
The scene remains active with emergency teams, including SAPS, eThekwini Fire and Rescue, and the Road Traffic Inspectorate currently managing recovery operations and clearing the roadway. A case has been opened and police crash investigators are on site to conduct a full assessment into the cause of the collision.
Traffic on the N3 heading towards Pinetown is severely backed up and motorists are urged to approach the area with extreme caution or consider alternative routes while authorities complete their work. Delays are expected to continue for several hours.
Further updates will be issued as more verified information becomes available.
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