Horrific Road Accident Claims Lives of Elite Athletes
Four elite marathon runners lost their lives in a devastating accident on the N3 highway between Warden and Villiers while returning to Johannesburg from Durban. Their vehicle collided with two trucks, resulting in a fatal crash that has sent shockwaves through the athletics community.
Athletes Returning from Ethekwini Best of the Best Marathon
The deceased runners had just participated in the 2025 Ethekwini Best of the Best Marathon, an annual event organized by the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and the Ama-Ravens Athletics Club. The marathon, which started and ended at the Kings Park Athletics Stadium, took place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, with a 5 AM start time.
Following the race, the group embarked on their journey back to Johannesburg but tragically never made it home.
Victims Identified
The runners who lost their lives in the accident have been identified as:
- Siraj Mbale
- Adolph Ramalanzwa
- Seza Phiri
- Mbali Hlatshwayo
According to reports, all four victims died at the scene of the crash.
Marathon Founder Confirms Memorial Service
Mthokozisi Khuzwayo, founder of the Best of the Best Marathon and chairman of the Ama-Ravens Athletics Club, confirmed that a memorial service will be held to honor the lives of the deceased. The service is scheduled to take place on March 6, 2025, at Renew Church in Pine Slopes AH, Sandton, Johannesburg.
Athletics Community Mourns the Loss
In a heartfelt Facebook post, the Ama-Ravens Athletics Club expressed their grief over the tragic loss of their athletes.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss and are in the process of reaching out to the families to offer our support. Our thoughts and prayers are with the runners’ friends, teammates, and loved ones. May they find strength and comfort during this difficult time.”
The marathon, which was first held in March 2020 in Westville, Durban, has grown to become one of the most prominent races in eThekwini. The deaths of these talented athletes have cast a shadow over what was supposed to be a moment of celebration for their participation in the event.
Ongoing Road Safety Concerns
This tragic incident is yet another reminder of the alarming number of road accidents occurring on South African highways. Fatal crashes have continued to claim lives since the busy festive season.
Recently, a truck accident in the Northern Cape resulted in the deaths of two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members when an army vehicle overturned on the R31 between Koopmansfontein and Delportshoop. In another devastating accident in the Free State, a collision between a truck and a bus on the N6 between Reddersburg and Springfield claimed ten lives, leaving at least 30 others injured.
Call for Safer Roads
The repeated tragedies on South African roads highlight the urgent need for improved road safety measures. Authorities continue to urge motorists to exercise caution, especially on major highways where high-speed collisions often have catastrophic consequences.
As the athletics community and the families of the deceased mourn this heartbreaking loss, tributes continue to pour in for the four runners who dedicated their lives to their sport. Their tragic passing serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety for all travelers.