GQEBERHA – A routine emergency medical response ended in tragedy when a paramedic from Bester Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was killed in a head-on collision at the intersection of William Moffett Expressway and Cape Road in Newton Park, Gqeberha, on Wednesday morning, July 15.

According to Department of Transport spokesperson Makhaya Komisa, at about 09:30, the paramedic was responding to a medical emergency when the EMS vehicle was involved in a collision with a Toyota LDV travelling in the opposite direction.

SAPS spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg said preliminary information indicates that the traffic light was green for the driver of the Toyota Hilux at the time of the collision.

“The impact caused both vehicles to overturn,” she said. “A 25-year-old male passenger in the ambulance sustained fatal injuries and was declared deceased at the scene. The ambulance driver and the driver of the Toyota Hilux sustained injuries and were transported to hospital for medical treatment.”

Janse van Rensburg added that the identity of the deceased will be released once he has been formally identified by his next of kin.

“The investigation is ongoing, as SAPS Mount Road detectives have opened a case of culpable homicide,” she stated.

In a social media post, Bester EMS identified the deceased as Mr Twala and the injured colleague as Leletu.

It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of one of our own, Advanced Life Support Paramedic Mr Twala, who tragically lost his life while responding to a medical emergency in the line of duty.

The post added that Twala was more than a paramedic; he was a remarkable human being, a trusted colleague, a loyal friend and a true servant of his community.

Describing Twala’s character, the organisation said, “He wore the Bester EMS uniform with immense pride and honour, always placing the needs of others before his own. His compassion, professionalism, courage and unwavering commitment to saving lives will never be forgotten.”

They added that while answering the call to help someone in need, he made the ultimate sacrifice.

“Although his life was cut tragically short, his legacy of selfless service will live on in the many lives he touched,” they said. “To his family, friends and loved ones, please know that your pain is shared by the entire Bester EMS family.”

Additionally, they said another Bester EMS member, Leletu, was involved in the accident.

“We also ask everyone to keep his colleague, Leletu, who was seriously injured in the accident and is currently in hospital, in your thoughts and prayers as he begins his road to recovery.”

Sharing their final tribute to Twala, they said, “Thank you for your dedication, your courage, your kindness and for serving with such honour. You answered every call without hesitation, and today your final shift came to an end.

Your shift is done. Rest easy, brother. We’ve got it from here.

They added, “You will forever remain a part of the Bester EMS family, and your memory will continue to inspire all who have the privilege of wearing this uniform. Rest in eternal peace, Mr Twala,” the statement concluded.

Komisa urged road users to always exercise caution, particularly when approaching intersections, saying that having the right of way does not prevent accidents.

“Your safety will always guarantee your safe arrival at your destination. Emergency services need to be prioritised when responding to life-saving situations, as the law permits and exempts them while they are responding,” he concluded.

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