SAPS concerned about the rise in hit-and-runs
In another incident, a motorist hit Mark McGregor (37) on May 26 on South Main Reef Road and the Paul Kruger highway.
Being struck by a vehicle that then leaves the scene is unsettling, but it has become commonplace in Springs.
The only thing more infuriating than being in an accident that’s not your fault is watching the other driver flee the scene.
Hit-and-runs happen when at least one person involved in the crash flees the scene before offering help or information to the others involved.
While they typically occur between two moving cars, they can involve pedestrians, cyclists, motorcycles, parked vehicles and other property.
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Springs SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Themba Tshabalala highlighted the surge of hit-and-runs in Springs over the last two months and condemned the crimes.
“We’ve had an increase in culpable homicide cases, some of which included hit-and-runs. However, we traced some of the vehicles involved in the crimes,” said Tshabalala.
“That increase shows that when motorists try to evade an accident, they fail to report it and that on its own is a crime. Every accident that occurs on a public road must be reported.”
Recent events included the death of Ettienne van Tonder (29) from Strubenvale. A vehicle hit him on Ermelo Road while he was returning home in the early hours of May 7.
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“This was a horrible, unforeseen death. Someone took a son from his mother, a husband from his wife, and a father from his daughter,” said Emerentia van Tonder, Ettienne’s sister.
“Someone took his life away from him without feeling any remorse. Our family wants closure, and we can’t get that without an explanation. His death haunts us all.”
In another incident, a motorist hit Mark McGregor (37) on May 26 on South Main Reef Road and the Paul Kruger highway.
His family said Mark’s passing was an unforgettable, painful death, citing that it was unfair how he died.
“He was a son, father, brother, and friend who was outgoing and loved life,” said Clinton McGregor, Mark’s brother.
“He was loved by everyone who knew him,” said Clinton.
To bring justice to the families and the perpetrators to book, the Springs SAPS appeals to the public to contact them on 011 365 5700 if anyone witnessed any of the incidents or could help with the investigation.
