One person was killed and eight others sustained multiple injuries when their VW Kombi overturned several times on the N12 near the R500 in Fochville this afternoon.
Paramedics that arrived on the scene found the Kombi lying several meters down a steep embankment next to the highway. All of the occupants were found scattered across the scene. One person was found with fatal injuries and declared dead. Three others were in a critical condition. Paramedics treated two of them for severe head and spinal injuries. After stabilisation ER24’s AER24 and AER24 DoH North West Helicopters airlifted them to Chris Hani Baragwanath and Milpark Hospitals respectively.
The remainder of the patients were treated for various injuries ranging from lacerations and fractures. They were all later transported to various hospitals in the area for further treatment.
It is understood the men, believed to be between 20 and 30 years old, were on their way from Azaadville to Potchefstroom to meet friends for a fishing event. At this stage the exact cause of the incident is not yet clear, however one of the occupants explained to paramedics that one of the tyres apparently burst and the driver lost control.
The exact cause of the incident will be investigated.
Werner Vermaak
ER24 Spokesperson
