Fatal M7 Crash: Truck Loses Control, Leaves Woman Dead & Several Injured

By Swift Reporter

A woman believed to be in her 50s has died following a devastating multi-vehicle crash on the M7 heading towards the Bluff, near the N2 intersection in Durban.

According to emergency services, the collision occurred on the afternoon of April 29, shortly after 16:45, when a truck transporting what is believed to be copper plates lost control. The vehicle reportedly collided with approximately four other vehicles before overturning onto a light motor vehicle.

Emergency responders described the scene as chaotic, with significant damage across multiple vehicles. Paramedics found both the truck driver and the driver of the vehicle it landed on trapped in the wreckage.

The eThekwini Fire Department was called in to assist with the rescue operation, using hydraulic cutting equipment, commonly known as the “Jaws of Life,” to free the truck driver. He was later transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.

Two additional occupants involved in the crash sustained minor injuries and were treated at the scene.

Rescue teams then faced the complex task of lifting the overturned truck and its load using a heavy-duty tow truck. Once access to the crushed vehicle beneath was gained, paramedics discovered the female driver. Sadly, she had succumbed to her injuries and was declared dead at the scene.

ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson confirmed the fatality and said there was nothing more paramedics could do to save the woman.

The M7 Durban-bound carriageway was closed for several hours as emergency personnel worked to clear the scene and ensure safety. The incident has been handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for further investigation.

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased, and investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.