Image sourced from video submitted by KwaZulu Private Ambulance
A driver sustained serious injuries after a one-ton bakkie and a minibus taxi reportedly collided head-on on the R34 outside Vryheid on Monday evening, 20 July 2026.
KwaZulu Private Ambulance spokesperson Craig Botha said emergency teams responded to the collision at approximately 6pm on the R34 Natal Spa Road, heading from Vryheid towards Paulpietersburg.
Upon arriving at the scene, paramedics found the driver of the bakkie severely trapped inside the damaged vehicle.
“The impact left the driver of the bakkie severely trapped inside the crushed wreckage. Rescue technicians spent 40 minutes using specialised hydraulic rescue equipment to cut the patient free from the vehicle,” said Botha.
Advanced life-support paramedics worked alongside the rescue technicians to stabilise the driver throughout the extrication process.
“The trapped patient suffered serious injuries, including suspected internal injuries and multiple broken bones. A second occupant from the bakkie sustained minor injuries. Both patients were treated at the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital for further medical care,” Botha explained.
Video credit – KwaZulu Private Ambulance Video credit – KwaZulu Private Ambulance
None of the occupants in the minibus taxi reportedly sustained major injuries requiring emergency transportation.
Traffic along the R34 was temporarily affected while emergency personnel conducted the rescue operation and cleared the wreckage from the roadway.
However, the cause of the collision remains unknown.
“Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) were on scene and have initiated a formal investigation into the crash,” Botha confirmed.
The circumstances leading up to the collision remain subject to the SAPS investigation.
Tell your story to the world. Paid editorial options starting at R12 500. Email: [email protected]
Please travel safe and ensure to obey the rules of the road.
Newcastillian News invites your input. We ask that you keep your remarks courteous and on-topic. We do not allow any form of hate speech, such as racist or sexist comments. All comments are subject to moderation in line with our User Rules and Commenting Policy.
