Multiple accidents on R31 road near Barkly West under investigation

THE SOUTH African Police Service in Barkly West is investigating three separate motor vehicle accidents that occurred within a 24-hour period on the R31 road near Barkly West that resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries.

SAPS Northern Cape spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock said the first accident took place on April 6 at approximately 4.35pm, about five kilometres outside Barkly West near Pniel.

He said an Isuzu mini-truck reportedly overturned and came to a halt off the roadway.

"Both male occupants sustained serious injuries and were transported to hospital for medical treatment. A case of reckless and negligent driving has been registered." 

He added that roughly an hour later, at around 5:30pm, a second collision occurred on the R31 near Gong-Gong.

"It is alleged that an Audi and a BMW were attempting to overtake when they collided with a truck. The truck overturned and came to a standstill on its side in the middle of the road. Each vehicle had a single male occupant. Tragically, the driver of the Audi was declared deceased on the scene. The drivers of the BMW and the truck both sustained injuries and were taken to hospital. The road was closed to traffic until about 3am on April 7." 

Kock said the Barkly West police were investigating a case of culpable homicide.

"The third incident occurred early on Monday morning at about 5:30am, about 15 kilometres outside Barkly West on the R31.

"A stationary truck, which had reportedly broken down on the roadside, was struck by another truck. The driver of the stationary vehicle was outside the truck at the time. The driver and passenger of the second truck sustained serious injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment. A case of reckless and negligent driving has been registered." 

He indicated that the road was reopened at about 9.30am on April 7. 

"The police urge all motorists with any information related to these incidents to contact Barkly West SAPS Detectives at 082 458 9670. Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution when travelling in wet weather conditions. Refrain from speeding and ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy before embarking on any journey," Kock advised.