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Update: Driver found in burnt out vehicle after R37 accident

The Lydenburg SAPS has confirmed that the vehicle’s driver was found inside the charred wreckage.

A horrific accident on the R37/Burgersfort road has left an unidentified man dead after his Volkswagen Polo veered off the road, crashed and caught fire yesterday, October 28, at about 21:00.

Witnesses reported that the driver abruptly lost control of the car and crashed before the vehicle was engulfed in flames.

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Bystanders described a chilling scene, noting that the car’s hooter sounded as if attempting to draw attention before it eventually fell silent.

What remains of the VW Polo after it burnt out. Photo: Supplied/Lydenburg SAPS

Despite the efforts of onlookers to assist, the fire quickly consumed the vehicle, leaving it completely burnt out, and the driver burnt beyond recognition.

Emergency services were called to the scene.

@lowvelder

VW Polo veered off the R37 as the driver seemingly lost control this evening, October 28. The vehicle caught fire shortly after. > Video: Supplied #Accident #Burgersfort #BreakingNews

♬ original sound – Lowveld Media

Sergeant Case Dilebo of the Lydenburg SAPS confirmed the details of the incident and stated that an investigation has been launched to determine the cause.

“We are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the crash, and more information will be provided as the investigation progresses,” he said.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers on the road, and local officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant and prioritise safety while travelling.

The accident scene after the vehicle was removed. Photo: Narda Engelbrecht

Updates will follow as the investigation continues.

_____________________

Headline: Car catches fire after veering off R37 towards Lydenburg

28 October 2024 – 21:51

The condition of the driver remains unconfirmed, with reports indicating that a person might have been trapped inside the vehicle at the time of the fire.

A devastating accident occurred on the R37 this evening, October 28, involving a Volkswagen Polo that veered off the road and caught fire.

The incident unfolded around 21:00, when the driver, travelling in Lydenburg’s direction, apparently lost control of the vehicle and crashed off the road. Shortly thereafter, flames engulfed the car.

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Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as nearby motorists rushed to assist. They said they heard the hooter going for a few moments, but then it just stopped.

@lowvelder

VW Polo veered off the R37 as the driver seemingly lost control this evening, October 28. The vehicle caught fire shortly after. > Video: Supplied #Accident #Burgersfort #BreakingNews

♬ original sound – Lowveld Media

“It was clear someone might have been trapped inside,” said one eyewitness, who opted to remain anonymous.

Emergency services arrived promptly, but the vehicle was already beyond salvage. The driver’s condition remains unconfirmed.

Locals are urging drivers to remain cautious along this route, as they express their condolences and concern over the tragic incident.
More information will be released as the investigation continues.

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Bertus de Bruyn

Bertus de Bruyn is based in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. De Bruyn has been employed by Caxton since 2009. After a short sabbatical of two years, De Bruyn is back at the place he called home, Caxton, at Lowveld Media. He is currently the digital content manager, but has 14 years of journalism skills, news editor, and acting editor duties behind his name.

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