-Staff Writer / Sat, 20 Dec 2025

Six people, including two children, were killed in a devastating head-on collision on the R57 between Petrus Steyn and Heilbron on Friday morning.The crash occurred at approximately 10:20 and involved two vehicles that collided head-on, leaving several occupants trapped in the wreckage.
Four adults and two children were declared dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel.
According to Free State RIMS Chairperson Sipho Towa, two other occupants sustained critical injuries and were stabilised at the scene before being transported to Tokollo Hospital in Heilbron for urgent medical treatment.
Emergency services and law-enforcement agencies responded swiftly and remain on site to manage the aftermath of the crash. Traffic is currently flowing past the scene under stop-and-go conditions, with motorists limited to a single lane.
Towa confirmed the incident and urged motorists to exercise extreme caution in the area.
“This is a tragic and heartbreaking incident that has claimed the lives of six people, including children. We appeal to road users to remain patient, obey traffic instructions, and consider using alternative routes such as the R34 or R76 to avoid congestion,” said Towa.
Motorists travelling along the R57 have been warned to expect significant delays and are advised to maintain a safe following distance while passing the scene.
Authorities have extended their condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the crash, as investigations into the cause of the collision continue.
News Junction (Gold Standard)

