At least 21 people have died in a devastating crash on the N1 between Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka in the Western Cape, with the collision forcing authorities to shut the highway in both directions.
The crash happened at about 11:30 pm on Sunday, 13 September, and involved two minibus taxis and a station wagon. Three people were also reported to have sustained serious injuries.
Emergency teams remain at crash scene
Emergency personnel and traffic officials were still working at the scene on Monday morning as authorities dealt with the aftermath of the collision.
ECR Newswatch reported that the Road Traffic Management Corporation confirmed 21 deaths following the three-vehicle crash near Prince Albert Road in the Central Karoo. The outlet also reported that three people were seriously injured.
The identities of those who died had not been publicly confirmed in the latest morning updates.
N1 closed in both directions
The severity of the crash prompted authorities to close the N1 in both directions, causing major disruption for motorists travelling through the area.
Drivers have been urged to avoid the affected stretch where possible and prepare for significant delays.
Authorities advised motorists who need to travel through the area to use Prince Albert Road Station, continue along the R407 towards the N12 and then take the N12 towards Beaufort West.
Arrive Alive said the alternative route is about 200km. Motorists were also urged to exercise caution and follow instructions from traffic and emergency officials.
Cause of deadly crash still unknown
The cause of the collision had not been confirmed by Monday morning.
Authorities continued working at the scene while traffic officials managed the closure and emergency teams attended to the crash.
As of the latest morning updates on Monday, 14 September, the N1 remained closed in both directions, and no confirmed reopening time had been announced.