HORROR ON THE R61: Nine Dead in Eastern Cape New Year Crash Near Mthatha

At least nine people have lost their lives in a devastating multi-vehicle collision on the R61 near Beyele, outside Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, as thousands of South Africans travelled ahead of the New Year.

The crash, which occurred at around 10am on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, involved two bakkies and a minibus taxi. Emergency services were rushed to the scene following reports of multiple fatalities and serious injuries.

‘Chaos and Carnage’ as Emergency Crews Race to Save Lives

ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson described the scene as overwhelming when paramedics arrived.

“Paramedics arrived on scene to find chaos and carnage as they found that two bakkies and a taxi had collided leaving multiple fatalities and casualties. Immediately a triage was set up by EMS Eastern Cape,” he said.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: North West Matric Learner Dies After Being Forcibly Taken To Initiation School

Several injured passengers were transported to nearby hospitals and clinics, with some being taken by private vehicles due to the urgency of their injuries. Ambulance and rescue teams worked tirelessly to free trapped victims before moving critically injured patients to medical facilities.

Death Toll Revised as Authorities Probe Cause of R61 Crash

ALS Paramedics Medical Services initially confirmed that seven people had died in the crash.

“Unfortunately, seven people (six females and one male) passed away due to their injuries sustained,” the service said.

However, the Eastern Cape Department of Transport later revised the death toll to nine. The road was temporarily closed while emergency responders worked at the scene.

Police and relevant authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collision.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky