KEY POINTS
- Eight people, including a two-year-old child, died after their vehicle was swept away by strong currents while crossing a flooded low-water bridge in Heilbron, Free State.
- A search and rescue operation recovered the bodies, with police urging the public to avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges during rainy conditions.
- The victims included a family of five and three colleagues, with authorities opening an inquest docket to investigate the incident.
A devastating incident in Heilbron, Free State, has left eight people dead, including a two-year-old child, after their vehicle was swept away by flood while attempting to cross the flooded Kliprivier low-water bridge.
Sowetanlive reports that the victims were travelling to a farm in the Heilbron district when the flood incident occurred.
The deceased have been identified as Ditaba Isaac Mazibuko, 71, the driver of the vehicle, his wife Modiehi Mazibuko, 62, and their three grandchildren: Refilwe Jwalane Monyatsi, 14, Luyanda Zengele, 10, and Sibusiso Brain Zengele, 12.
Also among the victims were Patrick Mquega, 34, a colleague of the driver, his wife Nthabiseng Agnes Toba, 33, and their two-year-old daughter Omphile Angela Toba.
Search and rescue operation recovers bodies
The wreckage of the bakkie by the flood was discovered by a farmer on the morning of March 3, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation.
Police divers and K9 search and rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover the bodies, which were found the following day.
Free State police spokesperson Capt Loraine Earle provided details of the incident, stating, “Preliminary investigations indicate that the bakkie was travelling along the Welgeluk dirt road when the driver attempted to cross the flooded low-water bridge. Unfortunately, the strong currents swept the vehicle away, resulting in the tragic loss of lives.”
Free State police commissioner Lt-Gen Baile Motswenyane expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families, saying, “This heartbreaking loss has left a profound impact on the community, and our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.”
Police have opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities have also issued a stern warning to the public, urging caution during rainy conditions. “We advise the public to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, or streams, even if the water appears shallow. Do not attempt to walk or drive through fast-moving water, as its depth and strength can be deceiving. Find alternative routes and wait for water levels to subside before proceeding,” Earle emphasized.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of crossing flooded areas and serves as a somber reminder of the need for heightened awareness during adverse weather conditions.
