At least one person has been confirmed dead following a devastating collision between a light motor vehicle and a heavy-duty truck on the N3 southbound near Shongweni on Friday morning. The tragic incident, which unfolded on the busy Durban-bound carriageway, resulted in a massive fire and brought traffic to a complete standstill for several hours.
According to ALS Paramedics, the collision occurred under circumstances that are still being investigated by authorities. Early reports indicate that the light motor vehicle struck the truck with significant force. The impact was so severe that the car immediately burst into flames, leaving emergency responders with a harrowing scene upon arrival.
Paramedics and fire crews were met by a vehicle fully engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading rapidly. Due to the intensity of the blaze, there was little chance of survival for the occupants of the light motor vehicle. ALS Paramedics confirmed that at least one person sustained fatal injuries, although officials have not yet released the exact number of casualties as investigations continue.
The force of the crash also caused the truck driver to lose control of the heavy vehicle. The truck reportedly veered off the roadway and plunged down an embankment, eventually crashing into dense bush below the highway. At the time of reporting, the condition of the truck driver had not been officially confirmed, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the incident.
Emergency services responded swiftly, with paramedics, firefighters, and law enforcement working together to secure the scene. Due to safety concerns and the need for rescue and recovery operations, authorities closed the N3 southbound towards Durban entirely. This led to severe traffic congestion, with motorists experiencing long delays as vehicles were diverted or brought to a standstill.
Traffic officials urged road users to remain patient and comply with instructions from officers on the scene. Motorists were also advised to make use of alternative routes until the roadway could be safely reopened. Recovery teams faced challenging conditions as they worked to extinguish the fire, recover the vehicles, and assess the full extent of the damage.
The N3 near Shongweni has seen several serious accidents in recent times, raising renewed concerns about road safety along this stretch of highway. Factors such as high traffic volumes, heavy trucks, and speeding are often cited as contributors to severe crashes in the area. Authorities continue to appeal to drivers, particularly truck operators and long-distance motorists, to exercise caution, obey speed limits, and remain alert at all times.
As investigations into Friday’s crash continue, more details are expected to be released by law enforcement and emergency services. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by road users daily, especially on major transport routes like the N3.
This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. Thoughts and condolences go out to the families, friends, and colleagues affected by this tragic loss of life.
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