Three People Have Died Following A Multi-vehicle Collision On The R101 Du Toitskloof Pass In The Western Cape

The crash occurred at approximately 11:30 near the old tunnel on the Worcester side of the pass. It involved three heavy motor vehicles and a light delivery vehicle (bakkie). Initial reports indicate a truck collided with the bakkie, leading to the multi-vehicle incident.

Two occupants of the bakkie died at the scene. A third person later died from injuries after being taken to hospital. Earlier reports had referred to two fatalities and one serious injury; later updates confirmed the death toll at three.

Emergency services, law enforcement and recovery teams responded to the scene. The R101 was closed in both directions to allow rescue, recovery and investigation work to continue. Long delays were expected while heavy recovery operations took place.

Motorists were advised to avoid the R101 and use alternative routes: the N1 through the Huguenot Tunnel, the N2 via Sir Lowry’s Pass, or the R46 via Nuwekloof Pass. Officials urged road users to remain patient, follow directions from officers on site and exercise caution in the area.

Western Cape Mobility Chief Director for Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout confirmed three fatalities and noted that emergency crews were conducting rescue and recovery operations while investigating the causes of the collision.

The exact circumstances of the crash remain under investigation. Authorities had not released the identities of the deceased pending notification of next of kin at the time of the latest reports.

The Du Toitskloof Pass (R101) is a mountain route linking the Paarl and Worcester areas. It is known for sharp bends and challenging sections that require careful driving, particularly for heavy vehicles.