A Zimbabwean truck driver died after crashing into six trucks and five cars in Marrianhill Toll Plaza, on the N3 Durban, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on Friday.
The spokesperson for Transport and Human Settlements in KZN, Ndabezinhle Sibiya, confirmed the accident.
Sibiya said the driver of a truck from Zimbabwe died at the scene, while more than 10 people were left in critical condition.
Garrith Jamieson, spokesperson for ALS Paramedics Medical Services, said that paramedics arrived on the scene to encounter a scene of devastation and chaos. He said:
Approximately six trucks and five vehicles were involved in the crash leaving multiple people entrapped and injured. Immediately more ambulances as well as advanced life support paramedics were dispatched to assist.
The eThekwini fire department was also requested to assist with the necessary rescue tools. Approximately fifteen people had sustained various injuries and once stabilized on the scene they were transported to various Durban Hospitals for the further care that they required.
Unfortunately, one of the truck drivers was found severely entrapped in their wreckage and despite best attempts by, paramedics he passed away on the scene. The national route was closed for hours whilst emergency personnel worked to clear the scene.
Jamieson said the circumstances leading up to the crash remained unclear. However, all relevant authorities were present and conducting a thorough investigation.
