Tragic head-on collision on Ventersdorp road claims two lives
As the community of Potchefstroom reels from the devastating loss of two cherished members, Bets Visagie and her daughter Marthie van der Merwe, the aftermath of a tragic head-on collision leaves hearts heavy and questions unanswered. Known for their unwavering generosity and renowned baking talents, the inseparable duo's sudden departure has left a void that echoes throughout their tight-knit community.
On the evening of May 13, a tragic head-on collision occurred on the Ventersdorp road between Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp, resulting in two fatalities and leaving a woman critically injured. A child, reportedly a teenager, sustained minor injuries. The accident caused extensive damage, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
Initial reports confirmed that the collision involved two vehicles meeting head-on. The deceased individuals were identified as Bets Visagie, known as Tannie Bets, and her daughter, Marthie van der Merwe, known as Tannie Marthie. Both women were beloved members of their community. Tannie Bets was 79 years old and had lived her entire life in the same house, while Tannie Marthie had been living with her mother for about 15 years. They were inseparable, deeply involved in their church, and known for their generosity and baking skills, particularly their koeksisters and pancakes.
A female occupant sustained critical injuries, and the child, fortunately, only minor injuries. The injured were promptly attended to and transported to nearby medical facilities, including Potchefstroom Hospital and Ventersdorp Hospital, for urgent medical care.
Thea-Mari Van Vuuren reported that heavy rainfall played a significant role in the accident. “Nobody really knows what happened that night,” Van Vuuren stated. “We just know it was raining heavily, almost like a curtain in front of you. It was 60mm in a matter of two hours. They were on their way back from Potch after Tannie Bets had been to the doctor. The sun was still shining, and then suddenly, a downpour started. We’re not entirely sure what caused the collision.”
The accident has not led to any criminal investigations, as it is viewed as a tragic accident. “We are not fighting against what happened,” Van Vuuren said. “It was an accident. We don’t question the will of God.”
The loss of Tannie Bets and Tannie Marthie has deeply affected their family and the community. “They were always willing to help everyone,” Van Vuuren continued. “They didn’t have much, but their doors were always open. Tannie Marthie even droves me to Potch Mediclinic when I was in labor with my youngest son. She was always careful, taking my grandpa to Klerksdorp for his cancer treatments every week without any trouble.”
In the wake of this tragedy, the family expresses gratitude that Lindie, another family member involved in the accident, survived, ensuring that her child, Amorette, will not grow up without her mother. “We are very thankful to God that He spared Tannie Lindie’s life,” Van Vuuren said. “No one is angry at anyone. We accept what happened and thank God that Tannie Bets and Tannie Marthie were taken together because they could not have lived without each other. We also pray for the full recovery of those injured.”
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to road safety regulations and exercising vigilance while driving, especially in adverse weather conditions.
