Three people have been killed and several others injured after a minibus taxi crashed off the N12 bridge near Laris Street in Daveyton on Tuesday morning, in what authorities say may be linked to taxi violence.
City of Ekurhuleni emergency services spokesperson Tikkie MacDonald said early indications point to possible violent interference before the crash.
“On arrival, paramedics and fire services found a minibus taxi that had left the roadway and ended up in a ditch.
Preliminary information suggests that the vehicle may have been shot at prior to leaving the roadway, and alleged taxi violence is being considered as part of the investigation.”He cautioned that investigators are still gathering evidence.
“This remains subject to an official investigation by SAPS and EMPD. At this stage, we cannot confirm the exact sequence of events leading to the crash.’FATALITIES AND INJURIES CONFIRMED
Paramedics confirmed that three occupants were declared dead on the scene due to the severity of their injuries.A further 12 people were affected in the crash, with varying levels of injury.
MacDonald added that multiple casualties were stabilised before being transported to the hospital.”A further eight patients sustained moderate injuries, while four sustained serious injuries.
All injured patients were treated on scene and transported to nearby hospitals for further medical care by Gauteng Provincial Emergency Services.”POLICE LAUNCH INVESTIGATION
The South African Police Service and Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department have launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Police have not yet confirmed any arrests or identified a motive, but sources indicate that taxi-related violence is one of the leading lines of inquiry.Authorities have urged motorists to avoid the area as the investigation continues and emergency teams work to clear the scene.Motorists travelling along the N12 corridor have been advised to seek alternative routes and to exercise caution due to ongoing scene management and congestion in the area.