Taxi Driver Rescued After Three-Hour Ordeal; 11 Confirmed Fatalities
A tragic accident occurred on the R102 near Lotus Park in Isipingo, resulting in 11 confirmed fatalities, including a 13-year-old. The incident took place shortly after 7:30 am, triggering an immediate emergency response.
Details of the Incident
The driver of a taxi involved in the collision was rescued after a meticulous three-hour operation, during which the Jaws of Life were utilized. Following their extraction, the driver was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
- Time of Incident: Shortly after 7:30 am
- Location: R102, near Lotus Park, Isipingo
- Duration of Rescue: Approximately three hours
- Fatalities: 11 confirmed deaths
- Critical Injuries: About eight individuals
Garrith Jamieson of ALS Paramedics reported that several patients remained trapped in the wreckage, necessitating assistance from the eThekwini Fire Department. After the incident, officials closed the roadway for ongoing investigations.
Official Responses
Siboniso Duma, the KwaZulu-Natal Minister for Transport and Human Settlements, extended his condolences to the victims’ families. He visited the accident site and noted the unfortunate timing, following an 18% reduction in road fatalities during the festive season.
Investigation and Community Support
To assist in contacting the families of those who perished, a team from the Department of Transport has been established. Duma emphasized the need for support for affected families. Eyewitnesses indicated that the incident was triggered by a truck driver making an abrupt U-turn.
In light of these events, Duma has called upon the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) to collaborate with the Durban Metro Police and South African Police Service (SAPS) to conduct a thorough investigation into the crash. This incident underscores the persistent concerns regarding road safety and the imperative for continuous vigilance in monitoring traffic behaviors that lead to accidents.
