Seven people died instantly at the scene when a Hyundai H1 minibus that they were traveling in overturned on the N3 toll road between Villiers and Heidelburg in the early hours of Monday morning. Two people sustained serious injuries while three more occupants were slightly injured.
The injured were rushed to the nearby Frankfort Hospital in the Free State. The deceased were all passengers. The indications are that the kombi was traveling from Gauteng to KwaZulu Natal.
The cause of the crash remains unclear at the moment, however the investigation is already underway.
Reacting to the crash, Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr. Jackie Macie has again urged motorists to use the road with great caution at all times.
He added that they must always adjust their driving in accordance with prevailing conditions on the road, especially at night when visibility is reduced.
"It is deeply saddenning to see such an abrupt end to other people's lives when they were supposed to celebrate the holiday season with their loved ones. All road users must always prioritize their lives and that of others by being extemely cautious," added the MEC.
He also wished those who were injured a speedy recovery.
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison.
