KEY POINTS
- A speeding taxi crashed into a crowd of students during a welcoming party at Nelson Mandela University, killing one 22-year-old student and injuring ten others.
- The 24-year-old driver was arrested and faces charges of culpable homicide, reckless driving, and driving under the influence, with his vehicle impounded for investigation.
- The tragedy has prompted the university to review safety measures and sparked community calls for improved road safety near the campus.
A vibrant student party at Nelson Mandela University (NMU) turned into a scene of devastation in the early hours of Sunday when a speeding taxi plowed into a crowd of young Jubilants, killing one student and injuring ten others.
According to Timeslive, the taxi incident occurred at the university’s Summerstrand campus on Protea Road, casting a pall over what was meant to be a joyous welcoming celebration for first-year students.
The 22-year-old victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was pronounced dead on the way to Livingstone Hospital.
According to a leaked police report, the student succumbed to critical injuries sustained during the crash. “It is alleged that a speeding taxi, a Toyota Quantum, drove into the crowd, killing a 22-year-old male student and injuring 10 others,” said Police spokesperson Capt Andre Beetge.
The taxi driver, a 24-year-old man, was arrested at the scene, and his vehicle was impounded for further investigation.
Authorities are probing charges of culpable homicide, reckless and negligent driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol. “The driver, a 24-year-old male, was arrested, and the vehicle impounded for further investigation,” Beetge confirmed.
University and community grapple with grief as questions arise over safety measures
The tragedy has left the NMU community in shock, with students and faculty members mourning the loss of a young life.
The injured students were rushed to the hospital, with two in critical condition, six in serious condition, and two sustaining minor injuries. The university has since issued a statement expressing its condolences and pledging support to the affected families.
“This is a heartbreaking incident that has left our community devastated. We are working closely with authorities to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again,” said NMU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sibongile Muthwa.
The university has also announced plans to review safety protocols around campus events, particularly those involving large gatherings.
Meanwhile, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about road safety and the enforcement of traffic laws in the area.
Local residents have expressed concerns over the frequent speeding of vehicles near the campus, calling for stricter measures to prevent future accidents.
“This is not the first time we’ve seen reckless driving around here. Something needs to be done before more lives are lost,” said a concerned parent whose child attends NMU.
