In a devastating incident that has shaken the Amatikulu community in KwaZulu-Natal, two young brothers were killed and their pregnant mother severely injured after a horrific hit-and-run on the N2 highway on Friday afternoon.
The victims, boys aged just 6 and 10, were walking along the roadside with their mother when they were struck by a speeding vehicle. According to Samantha Meyrick, spokesperson for IPSS Medical Rescue, emergency services responded rapidly to the distress call, arriving on the scene within minutes.
Upon arrival, paramedics were faced with a tragic sight. Meyrick confirmed that the two young boys had suffered extensive injuries and, despite resuscitation efforts, were sadly declared dead on the scene.
“The two children were fatally injured, and there was nothing further that could be done to save them,” Meyrick said. “The vehicle involved had already fled the scene by the time emergency services arrived.”
The children’s mother, who is reported to be pregnant, also sustained injuries in the collision. IPSS Medical Rescue paramedics treated her on-site, stabilising her condition before transporting her to a nearby hospital for further medical attention. The extent of her injuries and the condition of her unborn child are yet to be fully confirmed, but she is reportedly in a stable condition.
This tragedy has left the local community reeling, with many expressing anger and sorrow over the reckless actions of the unknown driver. Community members are now calling for greater accountability and improved safety measures along that stretch of the N2, which is known for frequent speeding and accidents.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the driver involved in the fatal crash. Authorities are appealing to anyone with information, dashcam footage, or eyewitness accounts to come forward to aid the investigation.
“This kind of reckless behavior cannot go unpunished,” said a local law enforcement officer at the scene. “We are doing everything in our power to track down the person responsible and ensure justice is served for these young lives lost.”
The tragic loss of two innocent children and the trauma suffered by their mother underscores the urgent need for drivers to exercise caution and for stronger enforcement of road safety laws in the province.
The incident has also reignited discussions around the increasing number of hit-and-run accidents in South Africa, which often leave families devastated and justice delayed or denied. Advocacy groups have long warned that harsher penalties and more effective policing are essential to curb this dangerous trend.
As investigations continue, support has poured in for the grieving family from across the province, with many offering condolences and expressing outrage on social media. A local church group has also stepped in to assist the family with counseling and funeral arrangements.
Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the South African Police Service (SAPS) immediately.
Rest in peace to the two young boys whose lives were cut tragically short. 🕊️
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