Three people lost their lives in tragic accidents around Carletonville and Fochville over the past week, leaving families in mourning and local authorities urging motorists to exercise greater caution.

A fatal incident occurred on September 6 on the N12 between Fochville and Potchefstroom, involving a serious collision between a truck and a bakkie.

Damian Wichtmann, communication officer for the Fochville Community Policing Forum (CPF), reported that one person died and four people sustained critical injuries in the crash.

A large multi-disciplinary emergency response team rushed to the scene, including local fire departments, ER24, traffic officials, police, and various towing and community safety services.

“All five patients received advanced life-support interventions at the scene. Four were transported to Carletonville Hospital, where one tragically passed away despite the dedicated efforts of medical personnel. The fifth patient was taken to Potchefstroom Hospital for specialised care,” Wichtmann explained.

Following this and other recent crashes, the Fochville CPF has renewed its calls for motorists travelling the N12 to obey speed limits, maintain safe following distances, and remain attentive.

“The Fochville CPF extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the person who passed away and wishes those receiving medical treatment strength and a safe recovery. The emergency services involved are also acknowledged for their coordinated efforts in responding to the incident and assisting those affected,” Wichtmann added.

Meanwhile, police in Carletonville are investigating separate culpable homicide cases after two pedestrians were killed in the area.

The first pedestrian incident happened on September 5 near the Engen filling station at Blyvooruitzicht.
Police arriving at the scene at around 19:45 discovered a critically injured man lying by the road who was later declared dead.

A damaged maroon Hyundai ix35 was parked nearby, though the driver was missing. A Wedela resident subsequently arrived and identified himself as the vehicle’s owner, while police continue their ongoing investigation. The second pedestrian death occurred on September 6 near the bridge at Khutsong Ext5.

Emergency personnel treated a 47-year-old local woman at the scene after she was struck from behind by a white Nissan NP200 bakkie while walking with her boyfriend. She passed away from her injuries. According to eyewitnesses and the victim’s partner, the bakkie initially dragged her before the driver stopped, only to speed away from the scene.