A tragic accident claimed the life of a passenger after a vehicle collided with a tree on Lacefern End in Trenance Park today. The incident occurred this Saturday afternoon when a green Opel Kadett, carrying three occupants, lost control and crashed.
The Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) Operations Centre received multiple distress calls around 13:39, prompting immediate dispatch of Reaction Officers to the scene. Upon arrival, officers found the severely damaged vehicle with the occupants still inside.
The driver, a 56-year-old male, reported that the vehicle's brakes had failed while descending a steep hill. In a desperate attempt to avoid a collision, he tried to maneuver the car to safety. Unfortunately, the vehicle veered off course and collided head-on with a tree.
Tragically, a 43-year-old male passenger seated in the rear of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The impact was so severe that he could not survive the injuries sustained. The driver and another passenger, whose identity has not been disclosed, suffered moderate injuries from the crash.
Paramedics from a private ambulance service arrived swiftly to provide medical assistance. The injured individuals were stabilized on the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.
The accident has left the local community in shock, highlighting the dangers of mechanical failures on steep terrains. Authorities are urging drivers to ensure their vehicles are in good working condition and to take extra precautions when navigating challenging roads.
RUSA spokesperson detailed the efforts made by the first responders. "Our officers arrived promptly and worked with paramedics to stabilize the injured. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance and road safety," he said.
The investigation into the exact cause of the brake failure and subsequent crash is ongoing. The police have cordoned off the area to collect evidence and interview witnesses. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Community members have expressed their condolences to the families affected by the accident. Support services are being offered to help them cope with their loss and trauma.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/100064313064388/posts/888052233348537/