VANDERBIJLPARK – The hysterical cries of grieving family members pierced the air outside Joko Tea on Monday after a tragic accident claimed the life of a 23-year-old mother and first-year university student.
Lydia ‘Mpina’ Mzizi, from Bophelong, was walking to work along the dangerous Golden Highway when she was struck by an alleged speeding Volkswagen Amarok, leaving her lifeless on the cold tarmac.
Scattered shoes and pieces of clothing painted a grim picture of the horror crash as police cordoned off the area.
Residents rushed to the scene after hearing a loud bang and the screeching of tyres, gathering to watch helplessly as emergency services arrived. Passers-by and motorists looked on in shock while the devastating screams of loved ones marked the tragedy.
For many witnesses, the image of Lydia lying on the ground covered in foil is a memory they will struggle to forget.
When Ster visited the grieving family at their home in Ext 18, the pain remained raw as they struggled to come to terms with the loss.
Her sister, Nonhlanhla Mzizi, recalled how a neighbour who arrived moments after the crash sent someone to their house to inquire what Lydia was wearing. After the eyewitness confirmed the clothing, the family rushed to the scene only to find her dead on the roadside.
The mother of the deceased, Nobuhle Khwange, said she was told the impact was severe.
“There was little blood at the scene. Those who saw her explained how she flew through the air after the impact and fell flat on the tar. Her things were scattered all over, which was a sign that she was badly hit,” she said.
Describing her daughter, Khwange said Lydia was a bubbly soul who was not outgoing.
“She was normally in the presence of friends or her boyfriend. Otherwise, you would find her studying as she was doing her first year at Unisa. We are devastated by the accident. The family really is in disbelief,” said the mother.
The family stayed up the entire night in disbelief, hoping someone would wake them from a nightmare.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Sabelo Sigcu confirmed that a case of culpable homicide has been opened and investigations into the accident are underway.
