A heartbreaking sequence of events on the N1 highway near Bela-Bela has left a family devastated, with a mother and her infant child killed after being struck by the official vehicle of Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi. The tragedy unfolded on Saturday, 9 May, when the woman’s husband was first fatally hit by a vehicle allegedly driven by an off-duty police officer. In a desperate attempt to reach her husband’s accident scene, the mother tried to cross the busy highway with her two young children — one strapped to her back.
While crossing, she and the baby were struck by Minister Motsoaledi’s state vehicle, which was being driven by a member of the Protection and Security Services (PSS). The mother and infant died at the scene. The second child survived.
Police confirmed the details on Tuesday, 12 May 2026. In a statement, SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said preliminary investigations indicate the family was rushing across the road following the first fatal incident.
“He was allegedly struck by a vehicle driven by an off-duty police officer and died at the scene,” Mathe said. “It is further alleged that while crossing the road, the woman and her children were involved in a collision with the Minister’s official vehicle. Tragically, the mother and baby succumbed to their injuries.”
Two separate culpable homicide cases opened
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened two separate cases of culpable homicide. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has taken over both investigations because the drivers in each crash are members of the SAPS.
“In line with standard protocol, the Minister’s close protector and the driver immediately stopped at the scene together with the Minister and remained there until police and emergency medical services arrived. Statements were subsequently obtained from those present at the scene,” Mathe added.
The SAPS has extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family.
Minister not driving at time of crash
Minister Motsoaledi was a passenger in the official vehicle at the time. No arrests have been made, and investigations into the circumstances of both accidents are ongoing.
The N1 highway in Limpopo has a long history of serious road accidents, and this latest tragedy has once again highlighted concerns over pedestrian safety on high-speed routes and the dangers of crossing busy highways in distress. This is a developing story.