A tragic accident along the N4 at the Jeppes Reef junction in the early hours of today, August 23, claimed the lives of two safety volunteers, Zelma D’Hollander and Donovan Prince. Another volunteer, Letta Taylor, was seriously injured.

According to the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison’s spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi, a truck had overturned at the intersection.

ALSO READ: State of road to Lone Creek Falls threatens tourism growth

Safety volunteers responded to the scene and were in the final stages of clearing it when a speeding vehicle drove into junction.

“The speeding vehicle struck three volunteers. Two of the victims died on scene, while the third was rushed to Mediclinic Nelspruit,” said Mmusi.

D’Hollander was the spouse of one of the founding members of the volunteer group, Patrik D’Hollander.

The victims were among the first responders when accidents occurred along the N4.

They played a key role in coordinating emergency medical services, traffic management, and other responses at accident scenes.

They were also members of the Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism (KLCBT) in Hectorspruit.

The KLCBT’s liaison officer, Jodene Erasmus, told Lowvelder that the volunteers held vast experience in their field.

The chamber had honoured Patrik and Zelma in 2023 for their long-standing service and contribution to society.

The organisation expressed its condolences to their families, colleagues, and friends.