A man was fatally struck by a hatchback on the N17 freeway westbound near the Osborne Road off-ramp in Wadeville early this morning.

According to William Ntladi, spokesperson for the City of Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS), the accident occurred at around 07:00. The pedestrian was killed instantly.

All three lanes were initially closed to allow emergency operations, with one lane later reopened to ease traffic congestion.

Two additional vehicles were involved in a minor collision while attempting to avoid the first crash. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

The driver of the hatchback sustained minor injuries and was transported to a medical facility by Gauteng Provincial Government ambulance services. The occupants of the secondary crash escaped unharmed.

Ntladi confirmed that the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) has taken over investigations into the fatal crash.

Authorities have urged motorists travelling westbound on the N17 to exercise patience and caution as the scene remains active.