The aftermath of the devastating Van Reenen’s Pass crash, which claimed 18 lives, has taken a new turn as authorities launch a manhunt for the truck driver believed to have caused the accident.
According to police, the driver fled the scene after the collision, leaving a trail of destruction and unanswered questions.
The tragic crash, which occurred late on Monday evening, involved a truck, a minibus taxi, and a light motor vehicle on the N3 Durban-bound near Van Reenen Town.
The collision claimed the lives of 13 adults and five children, while an infant miraculously survived but remains in critical condition.
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Authorities hunt for the trucker
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Nqobile Gwala confirmed that the truck driver is at large.
“We are actively pursuing leads to locate the individual who abandoned the truck at the scene,” Gwala said.
Meanwhile, the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Siboniso Duma, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the crash, including the conditions of the vehicles involved and the driver’s actions leading up to the incident.
A scene of devastation
The Van Reenen’s Pass crash, which took place amid heavy rain and misty weather, left the N3 in chaos as emergency responders worked through the night to recover bodies, assist survivors, and clear debris.
The N3 Toll Concession confirmed that both Durban-bound and Joburg-bound lanes near the crash site have since reopened.
Van Reenen’s Pass is notorious for its treacherous terrain and heavy vehicle traffic, particularly trucks transporting goods between provinces.
The steep inclines and sharp bends make it one of the most hazardous routes in the country.
The South African Weather Service had issued an Orange Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall in KZN, with flooding and poor road conditions cited as imminent risks.
