The fatal accident which occurred at the R44/Bredell Road intersection earluer this week, claimed the life of a beloved local teacher.
Somerset College educator Gavin Larsen succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident and was declared dead at the scene.
According to Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for Somerset West police, authorities responded to the accident on the corner of the R44 and Bredell Road around 14:00 on Monday (21 February).
“The deceased was driving a white Nissan bakkie and was moving from Bredell Road in the direction of Somerset West. The collision happened when Larsen attempted to cross the road and turn right onto the R44,” said Jantjies.
“An oncoming vehicle, a white Toyota Prado travelling toward Stellenbosch, crashed into the bakkie. The 49-year-old died on the scene.”
Jantjies added that police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.
In light of the incident, Megan van der Poll, head of the Development Department at Somerset College, confirmed the tragedy and loss of a long-standing senior mathematics teacher at the school. “He was a very experienced, accomplished and innovative educator, providing a dynamic learning environment for his students across both the Independent Examinations Board and Cambridge International curriculums. He was highly regarded, well-respected and will be remembered with genuine warmth and affection by his students and colleagues,” said Van der Poll.
“Support and counselling is being offered to the entire College community during this time and whilst they deal with the grief and loss of one of our own. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, and the College is assisting in any way possible.”
