Tragic death of e-hailing passenger as tree falls during storm in Kenilworth
The City and Fire Rescue services and Metro Rescue on the scene trying to remove the tree from the vehicle.
Image: Supplied
Wynberg police have registered an inquest following an incident early on Monday, in which a passenger in an e-hailing vehicle died after a tree uprooted and landed on the car.
According to police spokesperson, FC van Wyk, the driver of the e-hailing vehicle had picked up the passenger on Main Road in Wynberg and was transporting her to Claremont.
“While driving on Tennant Road, a tree blew over and landed on top of the vehicle.
"The passenger, who was seated at the back of the vehicle, succumbed to injuries sustained and was declared dead on the scene by medical personnel. The driver sustained slight injuries,” he said.
The City’s Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, confirmed that the incident occurred near Kenilworth, at the corner of Tennant and Oak Avenue, where a tree fell onto a motor vehicle.
Crews from Wynberg Fire Station, along with Metro Rescue, responded to the scene to extricate the occupant.
“The patient was a passenger in the vehicle and was extricated at 10:10am; unfortunately, she was declared deceased on the scene,” said Carelse.
Wynberg Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson Suzanne Japtha extended the organisation’s condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the passenger.
“This incident is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather and falling trees during strong winds and storms.
"The Wynberg CPF acknowledges the efforts of emergency services and law enforcement officials who responded swiftly to the scene,” she said.
Japtha urged residents and motorists to remain vigilant during adverse weather conditions.
“Avoid parking or travelling near large trees where possible, and follow all safety advisories issued by the authorities,” she said.