**Mbombela, Mpumalanga –** A devastating accident claimed the lives of four people on the morning of Monday, 10 February 2025, in a multi-vehicle collision on the N4 toll road between Karino and Nelsville, near Mbombela.
## **Details of the Crash**
The crash involved a Light Delivery Vehicle (LDV) and two Volkswagen Polo sedans traveling from Karino towards Nelsville. According to initial reports, one of the sedans first collided with the bakkie, leading to a chain reaction where the second sedan crashed into the two already-collided vehicles in a head-on impact.
Tragically, four occupants of the first sedan lost their lives when their vehicle caught fire upon impact. The victims were burned beyond recognition, making identification difficult for authorities.
L
## **Injuries and Emergency Response**
The driver of the bakkie sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital in Mbombela for urgent medical treatment. Meanwhile, the driver of the second sedan survived with only minor injuries and was also taken to the hospital for further assessment.
Emergency services, including paramedics and law enforcement officers, responded promptly to the accident scene, working to assist the injured and secure the area. Traffic along the N4 toll road was heavily affected as authorities cleared the wreckage and investigated the cause of the collision.
## **Ongoing Investigation**
Authorities have launched a formal investigation into the crash to determine the exact cause. While details are still being gathered, officials have not ruled out dangerous overtaking as a possible factor contributing to the accident.
The Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety has urged motorists to exercise extreme caution when driving, especially on high-speed routes like the N4. With road accidents being a major concern in the province, authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible driving behavior to prevent further tragedies.
## **Conclusion**
This horrific accident serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers on South African roads. Families of the victims now face the painful task of identifying and laying their loved ones to rest. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to release further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the collision.
Motorists are advised to drive cautiously, avoid reckless overtaking, and adhere to traffic regulations to ensure their safety and that of others on the road.