A tragic multi-vehicle accident claimed the life of one person and left four others injured, including one in critical condition, on the N2 near Empangeni on Tuesday morning, December 16, 2025. The horrifying crash took place in the cane fields section of the highway, just north of the R102 intersection.
According to Craig Botha, spokesperson for the KwaZulu Private Ambulance Service, paramedics were dispatched to the scene around 8:50 a.m. Upon arrival, emergency responders encountered a chaotic scene involving four vehicles: a light delivery van, two passenger cars, and a truck. The severity of the collision required immediate triage and coordinated intervention.
“One person was declared dead at the scene due to fatal injuries sustained before the arrival of emergency services,” Botha confirmed. The deceased’s identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.
Of the four survivors, one patient sustained life-threatening injuries requiring advanced life support on-site before being transported to a nearby hospital. Two others were treated for serious injuries, while a fourth sustained minor injuries. All patients received immediate medical attention before being transferred for further care.
Emergency services had to work in close collaboration to manage the scene. Firefighters were tasked with securing the wreckage and assisting with possible extrications, ensuring no further harm came to those involved. Meanwhile, the Road Traffic Inspectorate and local police managed traffic and safety, maintaining order on a stretch of the highway severely affected by the incident.
The collision caused major disruption to traffic, with the north- and southbound lanes partially blocked. Both the emergency lane and the left lane remained obstructed for several hours, leading authorities to advise motorists to expect delays and use alternative routes when possible.
Police have launched a formal investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that road conditions, vehicle speeds, and possible driver error are all being considered, but no official cause has yet been confirmed. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the accident to come forward to assist in the investigation.
This incident is the latest in a series of fatal road accidents in the region. Earlier reports highlighted similar tragedies, including a crash near East London that claimed the life of a three-month-old baby and a previous collision involving multiple trucks near Koopmansfontein.
Craig Botha emphasized the importance of safety and caution on South Africa’s highways, particularly during the holiday season when traffic volumes increase. “We urge all drivers to adhere to speed limits, maintain safe following distances, and avoid distractions. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and incidents like this remind us of the consequences when caution is not exercised,” he said.
Emergency personnel on the scene praised the quick response of all services involved, noting that the collaboration between paramedics, fire crews, and police was crucial in preventing further injuries and ensuring that all survivors received timely medical attention.
As the investigation continues, residents and motorists are reminded to remain vigilant on the N2 and other major highways to reduce the risk of similar tragic events in the future.
