Head-on collision claims two lives near Butterworth

Two people have died and three others were seriously injured in a head-on collision on the R409 road near Tutura, between Butterworth and Centane, earlier today.

The crash involved a VW Polo sedan and a Suzuki Ertiga SUV travelling in opposite directions.

According to preliminary information, the VW Polo was travelling from Butterworth towards Centane when it collided with the Suzuki Ertiga, which was travelling from Centane towards Butterworth.

Emergency services declared two people dead at the scene: an adult female passenger in the Suzuki Ertiga and the male driver of the VW Polo.

A passenger from the VW Polo, the Suzuki’s driver and another passenger from the vehicle sustained various injuries. They were transported to Butterworth Hospital for treatment.

Authorities allege that driving under the influence of alcohol, as well as reckless and negligent driving, may have contributed to the crash. The circumstances remain under investigation.

Transport and Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha urged motorists to obey the rules of the road.

He conveyed condolences to the families of those who died and wished the injured occupants a speedy recovery.

A culpable homicide case has been opened at Centane Police Station for further investigation.