A man died after his car caught alight in an accident in Mitchells Plain yesterday.

According to Traffic Services spokesperson Nolusindiso Piyose, a motor-vehicle accident on the corner of Weltevreden Way and Highlands Drive caused a fire in one of the vehicles involved.

Videos of the accident on social media showed firefighters dousing a trail of ignited petrol as it flowed down the street. Commentary from witnesses said the man was burnt beyond recognition.

Fire services

Fire and Rescue Service’s spokesperson Jermaine Carelse said: “At approximately 14:25 on Tuesday 7 July the Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to a motor vehicle alight.

“Crews from Mitchells Plain and Gugulethu were dispatched to the scene. An adult male and female minor were treated by Metro EMS on the scene and taken to a nearby medical facility. A second adult male sustained fatal burn wounds.”

Police response

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said a case of culpable homicide was opened.

“According to reports two motor vehicles, a blue Ford Figo and white Toyota were stationary at the red traffic light on Highlands Drive, when a white Toyota Quantum drove into the Toyota from behind and also into the Ford Figo. This caught alight and the 39-year-old driver burned to death in the vehicle. The taxi driver and one passenger were taken to the hospital.” He added there had been no arrests yet.

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