The collision between two trucks and two cars early Tuesday (24/3) morning caused a fire that engulfed the trucks. Authorities arrived at the scene to discover two light motor vehicles had seemingly caused the accident, said Free State road incident management systems chairperson Sipho Towa.

One of the truck drivers sustained serious injuries while the other, along with an assistant driver, lost their lives. Officials have said the full extent of injuries and fatalities is still being verified.

Fatal truck collision shuts down N1 in Free State. Photo supplied 

“At the moment, two fatalities and one serious injury have been reported,” said Towa. The road remains closed. Officials will direct traffic to the R723 to Parys, which will take drivers back to N1 via the R59 to Gauteng.”

The wrecks after the collision. Photo supplied 

Emergency personnel and law enforcement agencies remain on the scene, managing the situation and redirecting traffic. Motorists have been strongly advised to avoid the affected section of the N1 and to follow designated alternative routes.

Authorities cautioned drivers against using the R59 towards Vredefort, as the road is in a poor condition and may lead to further accidents. The R723 has been recommended as a safer option.

Data from the National Traffic Information System show 35,319 vehicles  in the Free State were declared unroadworthy in December alone, including taxis, buses, and other commercial vehicles.

Officials, including transport MEC Jabu Mbalula and premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, have repeatedly urged motorists to obey traffic laws, remain patient, and prioritise safety on the roads.

Last November, ten people died in a bus accident on the N8 between Botshabelo and Bloemfontein. The crash, involving a bus and a truck, also left dozens injured, underscoring the persistent dangers on the province’s roads.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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