White VW Jettas linked to two fatal pedestrian crashes in Despatch

The community of Despatch are left in shock after two fatal pedestrian crashes by two VW Jettas in Khayamnandi.

Apr 22, 2025 - 11:00
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White VW Jettas linked to two fatal pedestrian crashes in Despatch

The community of Despatch in Nelson Mandela Bay are left in shock after two pedestrians were killed in separate road accidents in Khayamnandi in the Eastern Cape. Both accidents, involving white VW Jettas, occurred on consecutive Saturdays, just two weeks apart.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The first accident took place on Saturday, 5 April 2025, where a two-year-old boy was struck by a white VW Jetta while playing on Albert Letuli Street in Kayamnandi. According to police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge, the incident occurred around 17:00. The child’s parents transported him to the hospital using private transport, but he was declared dead upon arrival.

Beetge said to The South African that a culpable homicide case was opened and is being investigated by SAPS Despatch.

THE SECOND ACCIDENT

Exactly 14 days later, on Saturday, 19 April, around the same time, a 62-year-old woman was killed on Old Uitenhage Road while crossing towards Kayamnandi. The vehicle, also described as a white VW Jetta, fled the scene without stopping.

According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, the woman died on the scene before emergency services could arrive.

Both incidents occurred in the Despatch area, but on different roads. While the cases are not currently linked, police have noted the similarities in timing, location and vehicle description.

What more can be done to make roads safer for pedestrians?

Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

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