Seven people lost their lives in a car crash on the N12 between Ogies and eMalahleni earlier this morning.

Witbank News reports that the fatalities resulted when a sedan and a light delivery vehicle (LDV) collided, claiming the lives of all the vehicles’ occupants.

According to initial reports, the crash occurred when one of the vehicles apparently lost control, veered off the road, and crossed into the opposite lane before colliding with the oncoming vehicle.

High-speed impact suspected

A statement from the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison notes that the road features a median between two roadways travelling in opposite directions, each with multiple lanes. This suggests that one of the vehicles may have been travelling at a high speed.

Five of the deceased, two women and three men, were the occupants of the sedan. The other two victims, both men, were the occupants of the LDV.

Investigation and warnings

“The investigation into the collision by the police, Road Traffic Management Co-operation, and the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, is already underway. However, we cannot rule out reckless, negligent driving,” says departmental spokesperson Mmusi Moeti.

Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie is urging motorists to use the road with heightened caution.

With the other lanes closed, one lane has been opened for motorists on the N12, and drivers are urged to exercise extra caution when approaching the scene.

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