A road crash involving multiple vehicles in South Africa kills at least 21 people, officials say

On September 13, 2026, at least 21 people died and several others were severely injured after a multi-vehicle crash on the N1 highway between Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka, approximately 380 kilometers (235 miles) east of Cape Town in South Africa's Western Cape Province. The collision involved two minibus taxis and an SUV, with the initial impact occurring when the two taxis collided head-on before the SUV crashed into them. Three victims who were taken to a hospital were declared dead on arrival, increasing the death toll from those pronounced dead at the scene.

This incident is part of a broader trend; in January 2026, two separate crashes involving minibus taxis left at least 25 people dead, including 14 children. Minibus taxis are South Africa’s main mode of public transport for millions of people and are frequently involved in fatal accidents. The Road Traffic Management Corporation warned that the current death toll may change as emergency services and authorities continue their assessment.

The N1 highway was closed at the site while an official investigation commenced, highlighting ongoing safety concerns on major highways in South Africa.