A Durban man is fighting for his life after a shocking accident left him pinned beneath his own car in the Cowies Hill area on Sunday afternoon. The incident, believed to have been caused by brake failure, has once again raised concerns about vehicle safety and maintenance.
According to reports, the man had stepped out of his light motor vehicle when it unexpectedly rolled forward. The out-of-control car struck him, forcing him through his property gate and into a concrete pillar before coming to a stop — with the victim trapped underneath.
Eyewitnesses immediately raised the alarm, prompting a swift and coordinated response from several emergency units. The Cowies Hill Emergency Group issued an urgent call for assistance, drawing multiple rescue teams to the scene.
Specialized rescue personnel from S.T.A.R.T. Rescue and Red Line Response were among the first to arrive. Using advanced hydraulic tools, including the Jaws of Life, the teams carefully stabilized and lifted the vehicle to free the trapped man. The rescue operation required precise teamwork and technical expertise to prevent further injury to the patient.
Once freed, the victim was assessed and stabilized on site by Red Line Response medics. He was later handed over to First Responder KZN for urgent transport to a nearby hospital, where he is receiving further medical care. Authorities have not yet released an update on his condition, but reports indicate that his injuries are severe.
The dramatic rescue saw participation from numerous organizations, showcasing the strength of collaboration among Durban’s emergency and security services. Responding teams included:
- S.T.A.R.T. Rescue
- Red Line Response
- First Responder KZN
- Ethekwini Fire & Rescue
- Metro Police
- Mobi-Claw911
- Jag Security, Inkoski Security, and Blue Security
- Local community response groups
Each team played a critical role — from securing the area and managing traffic to providing technical rescue and advanced medical support. The successful operation has been praised as a testament to the dedication and efficiency of first responders in the region.
Emergency officials at the scene reminded motorists about the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, particularly brake systems, which can fail without warning if not properly inspected. “Even a minor fault can have life-threatening consequences,” one responder said.
Community members who witnessed the incident expressed shock and concern. “It happened so fast — one moment he was outside his car, the next he was trapped. It was terrifying,” said a neighbor who assisted before rescuers arrived.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the brake malfunction. The incident has prompted renewed calls for motorists to prioritize safety checks, especially ahead of long trips or steep terrain driving.
The Cowies Hill tragedy serves as a stark reminder of how quickly accidents can happen — and how vital rapid emergency collaboration is in saving lives.
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