A fatal incident involving a gas tanker fire has led to the full closure of the N12 highway near the Comaro Road off-ramp in Bassonia, Johannesburg.
Emergency services responded to the scene after a vehicle collided with a gas tanker, triggering a fire and creating a high-risk hazardous situation.
Fatal crash triggers tanker fire
According to authorities, the incident occurred on the N12 westbound carriageway shortly before the Comaro Road off-ramp.
Reports indicate that a light motor vehicle collided with a stationary LPG gas tanker, resulting in a fire that rapidly spread due to the volatile nature of the cargo.
One person has been confirmed dead at the scene following the collision.
Highway closed in both directions
The fire led to a complete shutdown of the N12 in both directions, with authorities declaring the area highly dangerous due to the risk of explosion.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) urged motorists to avoid the area and follow alternative routes.
Traffic has been diverted:
- Westbound traffic via the R59 Reading Interchange
- Eastbound traffic via Kliprivier Drive
The closure is expected to remain in place for several hours while emergency teams manage the situation.
Emergency services respond to hazardous blaze
Firefighters and emergency personnel are conducting controlled operations to contain the fire and prevent an explosion.
Officials confirmed that teams are using defensive firefighting methods, focusing on cooling the tanker and securing the surrounding area.
Authorities have warned that the site remains a high-risk zone due to the flammable gas involved.
Safety concerns for nearby residents
Residents in the Bassonia area have been urged to avoid the scene and allow emergency crews to operate safely.
Officials stressed the importance of keeping a safe distance until the area is declared secure.
Gas tanker fires are considered highly dangerous due to the potential for explosions and rapid fire spread.
Traffic disruptions and alternative routes
Motorists travelling through southern Johannesburg have been advised to use alternative routes, including:
- M1 via Booysens
- R59 through Alberton
- Kliprivier Drive
Authorities warned of significant delays and congestion in surrounding areas.
Conclusion
The fatal gas tanker fire on the N12 near Comaro Road has resulted in a confirmed death and major traffic disruptions, with emergency services continuing operations to contain the blaze and secure the area.
Investigations into the cause of the collision are ongoing.
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OTHER NEWS
Woman shot dead in Hillbrow as police launch murder investigation in Wanderers Street incident
A woman was shot and killed in Wanderers Street, Hillbrow, Johannesburg, in an incident that has led to a murder investigation by police.
The shooting took place in an area known for high pedestrian activity, where the victim was reportedly a familiar figure in the community.
Incident in Wanderers Street, Hillbrow
According to initial reports, the woman was shot by an unknown male suspect while on Wanderers Street in Hillbrow.
Emergency and security services responded to the scene after reports of the shooting.
The victim was declared deceased at the scene following the incident.
Police investigation underway
South African Police Service (SAPS) members have opened a murder case and are actively searching for the suspect involved in the shooting.
At this stage, no arrests have been confirmed.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shooting are ongoing.
Security response at the scene
Private security services, including Bad Boyz Security, were present at the scene shortly after the incident was reported.
They assisted alongside emergency responders while police secured the area for investigation.
Hillbrow context
Hillbrow is an inner-city suburb of Johannesburg known for its high population density and ongoing challenges related to crime and urban conditions.
The area remains a focal point for law enforcement due to frequent serious incidents reported in the precinct.
Conclusion
Police continue to investigate the fatal shooting of a woman in Wanderers Street, Hillbrow, with the suspect still at large and a murder case officially opened.
