The accident on Robert Sobukwe
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One of the busiest intersections along the N2 corridor was partially closed on Monday morning following a fatal multi-vehicle collision that claimed the lives of two people and left several others injured.
The crash occurred at around 6.30am on Robert Sobukwe Road in the Montana area, causing major traffic disruptions during the morning rush hour as emergency services, police and traffic officials descended on the scene.
According to police, officers attached to Bishop Lavis SAPS arrived to find several damaged vehicles, including a Golden Arrow bus, scattered across and alongside the roadway.
Among the victims was a pedestrian, believed to be a 45-year-old man who was on his way to work when he was struck during the collision. He was declared dead at the scene by medical personnel.
A second victim, a passenger travelling in a Datsun company vehicle, also died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Several other people were injured and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Police said the Datsun driver suffered serious head and leg injuries, while another passenger sustained minor injuries. Both were taken to hospital by emergency medical services.
A blue Opel Astra involved in the collision was found with a 29-year-old driver who suffered minor injuries to his head and leg.
A Kia delivery vehicle transporting bread was also involved in the crash. The driver sustained serious injuries to his head and legs, while his 24-year-old passenger suffered minor injuries. Both were taken to hospital for treatment.
The passenger reportedly told authorities they were en route to deliver bread when the collision occurred.
The Golden Arrow bus involved in the crash was not carrying any passengers at the time. The driver escaped injury.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said the circumstances surrounding the collision were still under investigation.
"Bishop Lavis SAPS opened a culpable homicide case for further investigation," said Van Wyk.
He appealed to anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information that could assist investigators to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Golden Arrow Bus Services confirmed that one of its vehicles had been involved in the incident.
According to preliminary information provided by the company, the bus encountered stationary vehicles on the roadway and attempted to avoid them before becoming involved in the collision.
"The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation and details are still being established," the company said in a statement.
Golden Arrow confirmed that two people died and a number of others were injured in the crash.
"In line with company procedure, the driver has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. Golden Arrow is co-operating fully with the relevant authorities, and our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident."
The collision resulted in significant traffic congestion in the area as authorities worked to clear the wreckage and reopen affected sections of the roadway.
Investigations into the cause of the crash are continuing.