Tragic Crash in Springs Claims Two Lives After Mortuary Vehicle Accident
GAUTENG – A tragic accident in Springs, Gauteng, claimed the lives of a mortuary vehicle driver and his passenger on 20 March 2025. The pair had just collected the body of a deceased relative from a hospital when the vehicle veered off the road and crashed into a tree on Clydesdale Road around 4 p.m.
According to Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, the passenger, who was a family member of the deceased, requested the driver to pass through a particular area linked to the deceased before heading to their destination.
“It is believed the passenger asked the driver to take a specific route to pass the location where the deceased had passed away,” said Dlamini. Shortly after, the driver lost control of the vehicle, which then crashed and caught fire.
Emergency officials arrived at the scene to find the vehicle burnt out. The driver was still inside, while the passenger’s body was discovered outside the vehicle, next to a large fallen tree. Both individuals were declared dead at the scene.
Online Reactions Spark Spiritual Debate
The heartbreaking incident has sparked conversation online, with many South Africans reflecting on the spiritual and emotional aspects of death and mourning. Some social media users speculated about spiritual influences, while others emphasized the importance of respecting traditional and religious beliefs around funerals and death rituals.
Here’s what a few had to say:
Makazana Ta Fry: “Maybe the spirit wasn’t ready to be moved yet. Some things need to be handled with care.”
Sphesihle Biyela: “Sometimes we don’t understand the full story behind spiritual traditions. This is unfortunate for the driver.”
Piwe Baloyi: “So sad. This should be a reminder to mortuary staff and families to tread carefully in these situations.”
Mandy Reddy: “Very tragic. We should always let loved ones rest in peace.”
Mdavah Maimela: “Some rituals may carry meaning, but it’s important to approach them with wisdom and understanding.”
Vinolia Mogashoa: “This is heartbreaking. My thoughts are with both families.”
@MDewah: “Really unsettling. Sending prayers to everyone affected.”
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the deep cultural and emotional weight carried during the time of mourning.
Source: Briefly News