Cape Town – A driver of a petrol tanker reportedly died after his vehicle caught fire and exploded in Tshwane on Monday.
The driver apparently lost control of the tanker on the N1 highway near Botha Avenue in Centurion.
Multiple explosions were heard as emergency services arrived at the scene.
A driver of a petrol tanker has burnt to death after the vehicle caught on fire and exploded in #Tshwane. It is understood the man lost control of the tanker on the N1 highway near Botha Avenue in Centurion. Video: Tshwane Emergency Services @TheCitizen_News pic.twitter.com/vfhFGCvQYz
— ?????? ????? (@FaizelPatel143) June 6, 2023
Firefighters found the tanker lying on its side and completely engulfed in flames, The Citizen reported.
Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson Charles Mabaso said they received the call about the accident just after 18:30 and despatched multiple firefighting and support resources to the scene.
“Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters found a tanker that was lying on its side and engulfed by fire. They, together with law enforcement agencies and other emergency medical services immediately closed off the N1, south and north lanes between Botha Avenue and the R21/N1 flying saucer interchange.
Smoke and flames could be seen billowing from several kilometres away from the incident. #Tshwane Emergency Services said were multiple explosions as emergency services approached the scene. @TheCitizen_News pic.twitter.com/oCgAggqmyj
— ?????? ????? (@FaizelPatel143) June 6, 2023
“Human remains believed to be that of the driver were burnt beyond recognition in the cab of the tanker. The fire was subsequently extinguished and the flames in the ruptured and badly damaged tank was brought under control.
“The tanker was reported to have been carrying for 40 000 litres 93 octane petrol at the time of the accident,” the report quoted Mabaso as saying.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
