5 DEAD IN FIERY HEAD-ON CRASH

A HEAD-ON collision on the N1 between Mokopane and Polokwane at Ysterberg, a notorious hotspot for fatal crashes, has left five people dead. The incident occurred in the early morning hours last Saturday, when two sedans collided and burst into flames.

- Lizette Venter

According to Department of Transport spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene, four of the deceased were burnt beyond recognition. "Preliminary reports suggest that one of the drivers may have attempted to overtake when the crash occurred. Although the investigation is ongoing, reckless driving has not been ruled out as a contributing factor," Chuene said.

Emergency teams rushed to the scene, but the intensity of the fire left little chance of survival. Officials described the impact as severe, with the blaze making it nearly impossible to rescue most of the victims. Two others, the driver and a passenger, sustained injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.