Reckless driving on R101 leads to death of Westenburg policeman
The officer died in the process of a driver of a silver-grey vehicle attempting to make a U-turn on the R101 bypass, resulting in the fatal collision.
POLOKWANE – The Department of Transport and Community Safety has urged motorists to exercise increased caution and adherence to traffic laws following the tragic death of a police officer in a vehicle accident on the R101 bypass near Meropa Casino and Entertainment World.
The accident occurred last Wednesday around 16:30 when a silver-grey vehicle collided with a motorcycle ridden by a police officer on duty.
Departmental spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene stated that the officer died in the process of the driver of the silver-grey vehicle attempting to make a U-turn, resulting in the fatal collision. The officer sustained severe injuries and was declared dead at the scene by emergency services workers.
The incident sent shockwaves through the Westenburg police force, as the deceased was a member of their team, recognised instantly by his work uniform.
The driver of the other vehicle escaped unharmed, according to the accident report, which suggested that speeding, unsafe entry into traffic, and reckless driving were contributing factors to the collision.
Cases of culpable homicide and reckless and negligent driving have been opened at the Westenburg Police Station, with ongoing investigations to corroborate the preliminary findings.
Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the officer, reiterating the call for increased adherence to road rules.
