R542 Crash Claims Six Lives Near Middelburg

Written on 06/09/2026
Gideon Muteb


Six people lost their lives and four others were seriously injured in a head-on collision involving two light delivery vehicles (LDVs) on the R542 between Van Dyk's Drift and Blinkpan near Middelburg on Friday morning, 5 June 2026.

According to the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, both drivers and four passengers died at the scene.

Four other occupants sustained serious injuries and were transported to hospitals in Middelburg and Emalahleni for medical treatment.

The cause of the crash has not yet been determined and authorities have launched an investigation.



Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie once again urged motorists to remain vigilant and obey the rules of the road.


"All road users must play their part to curb such loss of lives. Every road user must obey the rules of the road and remain alert at all times," said Macie.

The MEC also extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

Motorists are reminded to remain alert, avoid risky overtaking manoeuvres, maintain safe following distances and be mindful of smaller vehicles such as motorcycles and scooters, particularly when checking mirrors and blind spots.​

Information and images supplied by the Department of Community Safety, Security And Liaison.