Fatal N12 accident: Family of deceased says victim was humble and compassionate
Sonwabo’s sister, Josephina, said he was taken too soon, as he had so many dreams and aspirations, including releasing his book about his journey with God.
The family of the driver of a silver Suzuki, who tragically lost his life in a multi-vehicle collision on the N12 west near the Voortrekker Road bridge on November 19, says they are still struggling to come to terms with their devastating loss.
Sonwabo ‘Mongesi’ Nqosile (33) of Etwatwa and a female passenger from Crystal Park lost their lives during the horrific crash, which involved four trucks and five other vehicles.
According to the Nqosile family, Sonwabo, a Bolt driver, was enroute to East Rand Mall to drop off a client when the accident occurred. The car they were travelling in belonged to a friend.
Sonwabo, who was well-known in the Christian fraternity in Etwatwa, was described by his grieving family as a compassionate, humble, and down-to-earth person.
“He loved going to church and helping people,” they said.
His brother, Lucky, said he last spoke to Sonwabo on November 18 when they discussed returning a pair of tekkies that Sonwabo had bought for him due to a size issue.
“He promised to return the shoes to the shop at East Rand Mall on November 19. On the morning of that fateful day, I didn’t see him. I got the shock of my life when my sister broke the sad news to me while I was at work.
“I couldn’t believe it and I still can’t. Losing him so suddenly is a pain I cannot describe.”
Lucky added that Sonwabo was his pillar, as they relied on each other following the death of their parents long ago and the loss of their 84-year-old grandmother in June.
Sonwabo’s sister, Josephina, said he was taken too soon, as he had so many dreams and aspirations, including releasing a book about his journey with God.
Also Read: WATCH: N12 west closed after fatal multi-vehicle crash
He will be buried on November 30 at Phumlani Cemetery in Etwatwa. The family shared that most of the funeral costs have been covered, though they still need assistance with food and transportation.
Anyone willing to assist the family can contact Josephina at 084 894 2630.
Police
Benoni SAPS spokesperson Captain Nomsa Sekele said the police are investigating a culpable homicide case.
“The investigating officer is still gathering statements from all the drivers involved in the accident. We urge witnesses who might have seen anything on that fateful day to come forward with information that could assist authorities in their ongoing investigation.,” said Sekele.
What happened
Ekurhuleni DEMS media liaison William Ntladi said rescue teams received a call at 10:03 about two accidents on that stretch of road, mere meters apart.
“It is alleged that the primary accident involved two trucks, one carrying wood and another loaded with sand.
“Due to the initial incident, the two right-hand lanes were affected, with the load of wood obstructing traffic.
“One of the trucks involved in this first collision veered off the road and came to a stop in the dense overgrowth on the left-hand side, just after the Voortrekker Road footbridge,” Ntladi explained.
“As a result of this accident, traffic came to a halt, leading to the second fatal accident. The Suzuki, with a male and female occupant, was trapped between two side tipper trucks, the first of which had already come to a stop.”
Also Read: FOLLOW-UP: Authorities to investigate fatal N12 accident
