HORROR N1 CRASH: 21 killed, three seriously injured in Western Cape
A deadly N1 crash in the Western Cape killed at least 21 people and left three others seriously injured.
The multi-vehicle collision occurred at about 23:30 on Sunday, 13 September, on the N1 between Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka in the Central Karoo.
Western Cape traffic authorities confirmed that three vehicles collided. Early reports identified them as two minibus taxis and a station wagon.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene, where the impact scattered wreckage and debris across the road.
N1 closed after deadly crash
Authorities closed the N1 between the Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka area while emergency teams, forensic pathology services and traffic officials worked at the scene.
The road remained closed in both directions on Monday morning, with motorists warned to expect major delays.
— WC Live Traffic & Safety Reports (@WCLiveTraffic) September 14, 2026UPDATE: EARLIER FATAL MVA
N1 CLOSED – PRINCE ALBERT / LEEU-GAMKAMotorists are hereby advised that the N1 is CLOSED in BOTH directions between Laingsburg and Beaufort WEST (Leeu-Gamka / Prince Albert area) until further notice
Multiple Fatalities and Vehicles Involved
Drivers have been advised to avoid the affected stretch where possible.
Motorists who cannot delay their journeys have been directed via Prince Albert Road Station, along the R407 towards the N12, before continuing towards Beaufort West.
Emergency personnel have urged motorists already caught in traffic to follow officials’ instructions and keep access clear for emergency vehicles.
CAUSE OF CRASH NOT YET KNOWN
Authorities have not yet confirmed what caused the collision.
The exact sequence of events leading to the crash is expected to form part of the investigation as officials examine the scene and the vehicles involved.
The identities of those killed had also not been released by Monday morning.
Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) spokesperson Simon Zwane said the incident remained a developing situation and warned that information could change as emergency teams completed their assessment of the scene.
The crash is one of the deadliest road tragedies recorded in the Western Cape this year.
Further information is expected from provincial authorities as investigations continue.
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