Two trucks collided on the N1 in Kroonstad near the Heilbron Koppies off-ramp shortly after 6am on Friday.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible and take alternate routes instead.
Update: One lane heading South on the N1 is open for traffic flow while the North lane is still closed.
As reported by emergency responders, one truck driver burned to death while the other driver was taken to a hospital in Kroonstad for further medical assistance.
All lanes are closed and traffic is being diverted north towards the Heilbron Koppies road, while traffic heading south was diverted before Vaal Toll Plaza via Vredefort.
Authorities attended to the scene and an investigation is underway to reveal the cause of the accident. A culpable homicide case will be opened for further investigation.
Back in October, one person sustained severe injuries when a truck lost control and crashed into the M4 bridge in Durban.
The accident occurred on Edwin Swales Drive just before South Coast Road. It is believed the truck driver absconded from the scene. However, one man was injured.
“A male believed to be in his thirties that was sleeping under the bridge sustained serious injuries and was stabilised on the scene,” paramedics said.
READ MORE HERE: Road closed after runaway truck crashes into bridge
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.