Four people have now been confirmed dead following the devastating multi-vehicle crash on the R555 (Old Witbank Road) between Emalahleni and Middelburg. Authorities have warned that the death toll could still rise as rescue operations continue.
The collision, which occurred beneath the railway bridge, involved a truck and multiple light motor vehicles, leaving a scene of widespread destruction.
Emergency services from both Emalahleni and Middelburg remain on site, where firefighters and rescue teams are working to free survivors trapped inside badly damaged vehicles. Several injured people have been transported for medical treatment, although the extent of their injuries has not yet been confirmed.
According to early reports from the scene, the truck is believed to have suffered a brake failure while travelling downhill. It reportedly ploughed into several vehicles before crashing beneath the railway bridge and catching fire.
The truck was transporting a massive steel coil, which is believed to have broken loose during the collision. The heavy load rolled into oncoming traffic, crushing at least one vehicle and coming to rest in the roadway.
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The fire that followed the crash spread into nearby veld, producing thick smoke that complicated rescue efforts and created dangerous conditions for emergency responders.
The R555 remains completely closed in both directions and is expected to stay shut for several hours while emergency services complete rescue operations and investigators examine the scene. Recovery teams have yet to begin removing the wreckage.
Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes until further notice.
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