Six (6) lives lost in Free State’s horrific crashes ahead of Christmas weekend

At least six people have died in two separate crashes in the Free State on Friday, December 23.

These fatal accidents occurred on the N3 and N6 roads in the early hours of the morning.

The first accident, was a head-on collision between the two minibus taxis at about 10km towards Bloemfontein, where five people lost their lives.

According to police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli, it was at about 3:45am when the Reddersburg police received a call of the horrific car crash.

“All emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene and it was discovered that five people succumbed to their injuries at the scene and about 11 were rushed to different hospitals in Bloemfontein,” says Kareli.

Kareli further added that, three passengers and both drivers of the minibus taxis died on the scene. 

“Circumstances that led to the accident are part of the investigation,” Kareli detailed.

In another incident, a motor vehicle pileup was reported on the N3 at about 07:15 where four light vehicles and a truck were involved. 

Unpacking the aftermath of the accident, one person was reported dead at the scene. 

“Both sides of the N3 are closed for investigation and clear up near roadside police have opened cases of culpable homicide on both accidents for further investigation,” Kareli addressed.

Receiving the news with an outcry, Free State commissioner general Baile Motswenyane said: “We appeal to all road users to exercise patience, especially under this weather conditions, we need to respect each other on the road.”