Taxi Driver Rescued After Three-Hour Ordeal; 11 Fatalities Confirmed
A devastating accident on the R102 near Lotus Park in Isipingo, south of Durban, has claimed the lives of 11 individuals, including a 13-year-old. The tragic incident occurred shortly after 7:30 am, prompting a swift emergency response.
Details of the Crash
The driver of the taxi involved in the crash was rescued after an intense three-hour operation using the Jaws of Life. Upon extraction, the driver was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Emergency Response
- Time of Incident: Shortly after 7:30 am.
- Location: R102, near Lotus Park, Isipingo.
- Duration of Rescue: Approximately three hours.
- Fatalities: 11 confirmed deaths on the scene.
- Critical Injuries: About eight additional individuals have sustained critical injuries.
Garrith Jamieson, a spokesperson for ALS Paramedics, stated that multiple patients were found trapped and the eThekwini Fire Department was promptly called for assistance. Following the accident, the roadway was closed to allow for ongoing investigations.
Official Reactions
The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, expressed his condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. He arrived at the accident scene and noted that it came on the heels of a significant 18% reduction in fatalities recorded during the festive season.
Investigation and Support
To aid in locating the families of the deceased, a team from the Department of Transport has been assigned. Duma underscores the commitment to provide necessary support to those affected.
Witnesses have reported that the collision was caused by the truck driver making a sudden U-turn. In response to this, Duma has mandated the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) to collaborate with the Durban Metro Police and SAPS to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
This tragic incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety and the need for vigilant monitoring of traffic behaviors that contribute to road accidents.
