N3 Toll Route reopens after a deadly crash that claimed eight lives

Mapaballo Borotho

Multi-vehicle crash claims 18 lives on the N3 — Image: Adobe Stock

Eight people have died, and six others were injured in a collision between a taxi and a truck on the N3 Toll Route near Swinburne, Free State.
The route has been opened following cleanup operations.
Motorists are urged to delay travel and drive cautiously amid expected thunderstorms and wet road conditions.

The N3 Toll Route has reopened near Swinburne in the Free State following a deadly crash between a minibus taxi and a truck.

The horrific crash occurred in the early hours of Thursday, 30 October 2025, leaving eight people dead and six others injured.

In a short statement released by the N3 Toll Concession, full-scale cleanup operations have since been completed.

“Road users are advised to expect ongoing traffic congestion and delays in the area until the backlog is cleared and normal traffic flow is fully restored.

N3TC appreciates the patience and understanding of all road users under these difficult circumstances and extends its gratitude to members of the Road Incident Management System (RIMS) who responded to the crash scene.” the statement concluded.

With thunderstorms and wet weather conditions expected in some parts of the country, motorists have been reminded to drive carefully on wet roads and to observe the following safety tips:

Maintain a safe following distance.
Reduce speed on wet surfaces.
Avoid sudden braking.
Watch out for oil patches.
Keep both hands on the steering wheel.
Switch on headlights for visibility.
Be mindful of vehicles behind you and in blind spots.
Take extra care during the first half hour after rain begins.