A section of the N3 freeway just outside Alberton was partially closed in the early hours of Tuesday, December 30, after a female pedestrian was fatally struck by a light motor vehicle, once again highlighting the dangers of pedestrians attempting to cross high-speed freeways.

Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) in the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) confirmed that they received a pedestrian–vehicle accident call at 00:17.

The incident occurred on the northbound carriageway before the Van Buuren Road off-ramp.

Emergency rescue teams responded swiftly and, on arrival, found the body of an adult female lying in the middle of the freeway.

A light motor vehicle, identified as an SUV with front-end damage, was located several metres away, having come to a stop on the side of the road.

Paramedics assessed the scene and declared the pedestrian deceased. The driver of the SUV was not injured.

The incident was subsequently handed over to EMPD for further investigation.

During scene management and rehabilitation, two of the five lanes were temporarily closed to ensure the safety of emergency personnel and road users, resulting in limited traffic disruption during the early morning period.

Forensic Pathology Services later removed the deceased from the scene and transported the body to a designated pathology facility in Germiston.

City of Ekurhuleni authorities have once again urged pedestrians to stay away from freeways, stressing that these roads are not designed for foot traffic and that attempting to cross them places lives at extreme risk.

For life-threatening emergencies, residents are advised to contact emergency services on 011 458 0911.