**Gauteng** – A tragic incident unfolded on the R25 road towards Bronkhorstspruit early this morning, where a tanker carrying petrol was involved in a catastrophic accident that resulted in an explosion and a massive fire.
The accident occurred just after midnight when the tanker swerved off the road and collided with the Rietvlei River bridge in Bredell. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion that lit up the night sky, followed by flames that engulfed the area around the bridge. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene to control the fire and assess the damage.
Sadly, the driver of the tanker did not survive the incident. Local authorities have confirmed that the driver perished in the explosion, leaving behind a community in shock. The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the accident.
As a result of the explosion and ensuing fire, the R25 has been closed off to traffic. Motorists are being advised to use alternative routes as cleanup and investigation efforts continue. Authorities have estimated that the road may reopen by 7:00 PM today, but this is subject to change based on the progress of the recovery operation.
The incident has raised concerns about road safety and the transportation of hazardous materials. Local residents expressed their fears regarding the potential risks associated with tanker accidents, emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures on roads heavily trafficked by such vehicles.
Investigators will also look into the maintenance records of the tanker and any potential mechanical failures that could have contributed to the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that the vehicle may have experienced some form of malfunction before losing control.
This tragedy serves as a reminder of the inherent dangers involved in transporting flammable materials. As the investigation continues, community members are left to grapple with the loss and the implications of such an event on their safety and well-being.
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