Lotus Park tragedy: At least 11 killed in devastating R102 crash near Durban
Eight people have been in a horror crash in Lotus Park, Durban on Thursday morning. Image Source: ALS Paramedics
At least 11 people have been killed in a devastating multi-vehicle crash on the R102 near Lotus Park, just south of Durban, triggering an extensive emergency response and renewed concerns over road safety in the area.
The collision, which occurred on Thursday morning, involved a truck and a minibus taxi along a busy stretch of road near Isipingo. Emergency services confirmed that several other passengers sustained serious to critical injuries, with victims rushed to multiple hospitals across the city.
What Happened on the R102 Near Lotus Park
According to ALS Paramedics, the crash scene was chaotic, with emergency teams battling to access victims trapped inside the wreckage. Spokesperson Gareth Jamieson confirmed that fatalities were declared at the scene, including one child.
“The impact was severe,” Jamieson said, explaining that firefighters from the eThekwini Fire Department had to extricate both deceased victims and survivors who were still trapped inside the taxi.
Two people, including the taxi driver, were reported to be severely entrapped for several hours as rescue operations continued.
Emergency Services Respond as Road Closed
Paramedics, ambulances, fire crews, and police units were deployed in large numbers, prompting authorities to close parts of the R102 and urge motorists to use alternative routes.
Jamieson described the crash as a “horrific scene”, warning that clearance operations would take time due to the number of casualties and damaged vehicles.
Motorists traveling between Isipingo, Lotus Park, and surrounding southern Durban suburbs experienced major traffic disruptions throughout the morning.
Cause of the Crash Still Under Investigation
While the exact cause of the accident remains unclear, unconfirmed reports from the scene suggest the truck may have lost control before colliding with oncoming traffic. Police have not yet released an official statement confirming the sequence of events.
Witnesses reported tensions at the scene, with the truck driver allegedly needing police protection after being confronted by distressed residents.
Authorities have confirmed that a full investigation is underway.
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Residents Say the Road Is Known for Accidents
Local residents say the stretch of road where the crash occurred has a long history of serious accidents, often linked to speeding and heavy traffic.
“It’s a dangerous road,” one resident said. “We see accidents here all the time. Just recently, a schoolchild was killed.”
The tragedy has reignited calls for improved road safety measures, stricter enforcement, and infrastructure upgrades along the R102 corridor.
A Growing Concern Over Road Safety in Durban
The Lotus Park crash adds to a worrying trend of fatal road accidents in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly involving minibus taxis and freight trucks.
Transport authorities are expected to assess whether additional interventions, such as speed controls, signage, or traffic calming measures, are needed to prevent further loss of life.
This remains a developing story, and officials say casualty figures may change as investigations continue.
FAQ
What happened in Lotus Park today?
A fatal crash involving a truck and a minibus taxi occurred on the R102 near Lotus Park, killing at least 11 people.
How many people died in the R102 crash?
Emergency services have confirmed at least 11 fatalities, including one child.
Where is Lotus Park located?
Lotus Park is a residential area south of Durban, near Isipingo, in KwaZulu-Natal.
Is the R102 road closed?
Parts of the R102 were closed following the crash to allow rescue and recovery operations.
What caused the Lotus Park accident?
The exact cause has not been confirmed. Investigations are ongoing, with early reports suggesting possible loss of control by the truck.
Were there survivors?
Yes. Several people sustained serious to critical injuries and were transported to hospitals.
Which emergency services responded?
ALS Paramedics, the eThekwini Fire Department, police, and multiple ambulance services responded.
Is the area known for accidents?
Residents say the road is notorious for serious crashes, often linked to speeding and congestion.
