Tow truck driver arrested following a horrific accident that claimed 8 lives in Empangeni along the N2. Image credit: Arrive Alive
KZN Department of Transport and Human Settlements says they are working closer to Umkhumbi Wesethembiso Church in Zion and families following the death of eight church members in a horrific accident along the N2 in Empangeni.
MEC Siboniso Duma, has rectified the mistake made on the initial report which stated that nine fatalities were reported, saying that only eight members of Umkhumbi Wesethembiso Church in Zion, headquarters in Hluhluwe died in the horrific accident.
Duma stated that the miscalculation of the victims was due to the dismembered body parts, and also added that counseling will be provided to the emergency personnel and to surviving members of the church.
“We can confirm that the driver of the tow truck was arrested. Members of the South African Police Service are investigating a case of culpable homicide, ” Duma said.
Duma added that the tow truck and Hyundai H-100 bakkie will be the subject of an investigation.
He also clarified affiliations of the church and revealed that his office is constantly communicating with Rev Simiso Mathe from the local branch called Intathakusa Church in Zion located in Ward 03, Umtubatuba Local Municipality.
“He informed us last night that nine church members were treated and discharged. And that three are still in the hospital,” he said.
The identification of the victims in the mortuary toom place this morning in Richards Bay Mortuary.
Road Traffic Inspectorate and provincial Champlain Viva Mpungose and other local chaplains with the mandate from the MEC will be working closer to the families during this difficult period.
The MEC affirmed that they be working with the elders of Umkhumbi Wesethembiso Church in Zion and families to ensure that the deceased are given a dignified funeral.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance(DA) in KZN has also extended its condolences to the families and communities affected by the horrific accident, lamenting that what should have been a time to honour and celebrate mothers ended in devastating tragedy for several families.
DA commended the emergency responders and healthcare professionals for their swift response in each of these incidents, stating that their commitment and compassion in the face of overwhelming circumstances is highly appreciated.
The party stated that as part of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), they are committed to ensuring that meaningful, proactive measures are taken to make our roads safer.
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