Police are investigating a case of culpable homicide after a man was allegedly burnt to death when his vehicle was engulfed in flames, following a horrific accident on the Higginson Highway over the weekend.
Communications Officer of SAPS Bayview, Warrant Officer Collin Chetty, said: “Any community members who may have information regarding the tragic accident are encouraged to come forward. Police are also searching for the next of kin. Due to the extent of the damage to the vehicle caused by the fire, police were unable to identify the number plate. However, investigations are ongoing, and now that the vehicle has cooled down, police will employ other methods to identify the deceased.”
Claude Subramodey of Amawele Emergency Services said: “When paramedics arrived at the scene, they found that the driver of a NP200 bakkie had lost control. The vehicle crashed into a tree and burst into flames. Sadly, there was nothing more paramedics could do for him, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
“As emergency responders, we’ve noticed a significant increase in the number of accidents along Higginson Highway in recent weeks. Many of these incidents are the result of speeding and reckless driving. We urge all motorists to exercise extreme caution, obey the speed limits, and remain alert at all times. Your safety, and the safety of others on the road, depends on responsible driving. Let’s work together to reduce accidents and save lives.”
Garrith Jamieson of ALS Paramedics said: “A man believed to be in his forties was killed in a horrific crash on the M1 Higginson Highway eastbound, before the Havenside robots in Chatsworth, on Saturday evening. Paramedics arrived at the scene to find the eThekwini Fire Department already battling the vehicle fire. The driver, believed to be the only occupant of the vehicle, was unfortunately unable to escape in time and passed away on the scene.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Warrant Officer Babs Perumal on 074 315 4776.
