By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – Six people were killed and 21 others injured in a devastating late-night crash on the R26 outside Fouriesburg, prompting the Free State Department of Health to renew urgent calls for road safety as holidaymakers return home.
The fatal accident occurred near Mashaeng on Saturday night, 3 January 2026, shortly before midnight. A sedan and a 22-seater minibus taxi collided in a violent T-bone crash.
According to the Free State Provincial Commissioner’s office, a white Kia sedan travelling from Mashaeng towards Fouriesburg allegedly failed to stop at an intersection and struck a white Mercedes-Benz minibus taxi en route from Ficksburg to Pretoria.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said three occupants of the sedan died on the scene, while two others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to hospital.
“The minibus taxi was carrying 22 people, including the driver. The driver and two passengers died on impact, while 19 others were injured and transported to hospitals in Bethlehem and Bohlokong,” said Mophiring.
The names of the deceased and injured have been withheld pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.
A case of culpable homicide has been opened for investigation.In the wake of the tragedy, the Free State Department of Health issued a stern warning to motorists, urging heightened caution during the peak return period at the end of the festive season.
In a statement released on Sunday, the department called on drivers to obey traffic laws, avoid speeding, rest regularly and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Free State MEC for Health, Monyatso Mahlatsi, said reckless and preventable behaviour continues to claim lives on the province’s roads.
“No journey is worth a life,” Mahlatsi said.
“We appeal to all motorists to be patient, alert and disciplined as they travel back to their destinations.”
He also reminded people living with chronic illnesses to continue taking their medication as prescribed and to prioritize their health as they return to work and normal routines.
The department further advised motorists to stop and rest at least every two hours or after 200 kilometres to combat fatigue, one of the leading causes of serious road accidents.
As investigations into the R26 crash continue, authorities have stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility and that vigilance could prevent further loss of life.
The Department of Health has wished all travellers a safe journey, reminding motorists that arriving alive is the only destination that matters.
