One Dead, 58 Injured After Farm Worker Truck Overturns Near Patensie

One person has died and 58 others were injured after a truck transporting seasonal farm workers overturned on the R331 near Patensie in the Sarah Baartman District on Friday.

According to the Eastern Cape Department of Transport and Community Safety, the truck, which was towing a trailer, lost control before overturning. The cause of the crash has not yet been confirmed.

The truck was carrying seasonal farm workers at the time of the incident. Emergency services, including paramedics and other rescue teams, responded to the scene, where the injured were assessed before being transported to various hospitals across the region for further medical treatment. The severity of the injuries has not yet been released.

The deceased was declared dead at the scene.

Emergency crews worked for several hours to clear the wreckage and ensure the road was safe for motorists. The Department has confirmed that the R331 has since been fully reopened to traffic.

The Eastern Cape Department of Transport and Community Safety has once again urged all road users to reduce their speed, remain alert and drive responsibly, warning that reckless or negligent driving can have devastating consequences.

Transport and Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha extended his condolences to the family of the person who lost their life in the crash and wished those who were injured a speedy recovery.

“The MEC conveys his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and wishes the injured passengers a swift recovery,” the Department said.