Limpopo soccer hero ‘King’ Bale dies in hit-and-run
The Limpopo police are searching for the driver who fled the hit-and-run that led to the death of well-known soccer figure Muthakhi ‘King’ Bale.
LIMPOPO – The police are seeking assistance in locating the driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of well-known soccer enthusiast, Muthakhi ‘King’ Bale (45), in the early hours last Sunday.
Bale was struck and killed by a vehicle while walking home between Manavhela and Zamenkomste.
A respected soccer official in the area and a member of Zamenkomste Liverpool, Bale was widely known for his dedication to the sport. The driver fled the scene and remains at large.
Vhembe police spokesperson WO Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the accident took place early the Sunday morning.
He stated that the driver failed to stop and offer assistance to the victim.
Dathi urged motorists to exercise caution and condemned reckless driving, particularly speeding.
“The cause of the accident is still under investigation,” he said, adding that a case of reckless driving and culpable homicide has been opened.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the police.
Zamenkomste Liverpool chairperson Steven Mathivha, who worked alongside Bale in developing young soccer players, described him as a “larger-than-life” community builder.
“He was always there when we needed him. His loss leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.” The family, team and community remain in shock and grief over the passing of such a valued member, he said. He emphasised Bale’s role in uplifting local soccer standards, adding, “We are saddened by his loss but trust that God has taken him for a reason”.
Bale was laid to rest on April 5 at the Zamenkomste Cemetery.
