BELA-BELA – A mother and her baby have been killed after being struck by Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi’s official vehicle while attempting to cross the N1 highway near Bela-Bela on Saturday.

The victims were rushing to the scene where the woman’s husband had just been fatally struck by another vehicle moments earlier, driven by an off-duty police officer.

The South African Police Service confirmed on Tuesday that the woman was attempting to cross the busy highway with her two children, one of whom was strapped to her back, when the second collision occurred.

“Tragically, the mother and baby succumbed to their injuries,” said Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, national police spokesperson.

According to police, the family had been at the roadside when the husband was struck by a vehicle and died at the scene. The woman then attempted to cross the N1 with her children to reach him.

The minister’s vehicle was being driven by a member of the Protection Security Services at the time of the 9 May incident.

“In line with standard protocol, the minister’s close protector and the driver immediately stopped at the scene together with the minister and remained there until police and emergency medical services arrived,” Mathe said.

Statements have been obtained from those present at the scene.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate has taken over the investigation as both drivers involved are SAPS members. Two separate cases of culpable homicide are under investigation.

“The SAPS extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time,” Mathe said.