Mbombela woman dies following car crash

A horrific crash claimed the life of a local 24-year-old woman in the early hours of Friday, June 30.

Carli Koen, known as a ‘ray of sunshine’ to everyone who knew her, had been driving on the R40 when her vehicle crashed into a tree near Coastal Hire at about 03:30.

ER24’s spokesperson, Russel Meiring, said when paramedics arrived at the scene, it appeared that some bystanders had already pulled Koen from the wreckage, and that she seemed to have been the only occupant in the car at the time of the crash.

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Meiring said she was immediately rushed to Mediclinic Nelspruit, but died later on Friday afternoon due to the numerous injuries she had sustained in the accident.

Reports indicate Koen had been on her way home, but it is unclear from where. A Nelspruit Police Station spokesperson, Constable Bongani Mokoena, said the cause of the crash is being investigated. He said the police would comment at a later stage once they had gathered more information.

Koen’s family and friends were devastated by her sudden and tragic death. Some posted poignant tributes to the young woman on Facebook.

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Her father, Hennie, who called his daughter ‘Carli-poppie’, said she embraced life every day. “You were a ray of sunshine for so many people. You said I was your rock and anchor, but the opposite is true,” he said.

“You showed me the beauty and laughter of life. I will keep your memories alive by applying your example in my life. I will cherish our song, ‘Tjoklitbeksoentjies’, forever. Until next time. Daddy.”

Hennie added that Carli had matriculated from Hoërskool Nelspruit, after which she started work in the United States as an au pair.

He said she had started at Laerskool Laeveld as a student teacher and was in her final year of studying education.

“She loved making jewellery and doing women’s nails, and her biggest love was people,” he said.

Carli’s mother, Karin, said she had an infectious laugh and always had a twinkle in her eye. “You were always fine-tuned to touch people around you and make them feel special.”

She said Carli always knew exactly what her family’s favourite treats were and made a special effort for them all.

“Sussie, I’m going to miss your razor-sharp humour, exotic gel nail sessions, clothing style advice, good morning messages and tight hugs,” said Karin.

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“And when the hurt and longing for you overwhelm me, I know for sure that you are safe with Jesus… Your mother loves you endlessly.”

A friend of Carli’s, Lené Engelbrecht, posted a heartfelt tribute for her on her Facebook page, also saying that Carli was the sunshine in her family and friends’ lives.

“I am so privileged that an angel like you was sent over my path. You came into my life when we were in Grade Eight, and I know God knew what a long road we would walk together, and what a huge impact you would make on my life,” wrote Engelbrecht.

“You have such a big place in my heart, a place that is now just full of beautiful times, moments and memories that I will cherish forever.

“You were always ready for an adventure or to have a picnic somewhere… You were a sunshine person who left deep tracks and touched everyone around you. You made everyone feel special, and always made the effort to put a smile on someone’s face.”

A memorial service for Carli will be held at the Communio Church today, July 7 at 11:00.