A horrific accident on Monday claimed the lives of two pastors from the African Methodist Episcopal Church and left three critically injured.
Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk says: “Paarl SAPS attended a culpable homicide at the N1 Huguenot Tunnel on Monday, 14 June, at approximately 6.15pm.
“On arrival at the scene, two vehicles, a Toyota Avanza and an Iveco (truck) were found.
“According to reports, the driver of the Iveco had made a U-turn in front of the Avanza, causing the vehicles to collide.”
Pastor Mark Pietersen died on the scene, while Pastor Johan Phillips passed away in hospital on Tuesday.
The other three holy men, Pastor S. Krotz; Pastor Z. Madikane and Pastor C. Gimenez are all in a critical but stable condition in hospital.
Bishop David Daniels from the AME church has appealed for prayers for the victims and their families.
“We lost two of our own with three in very critical but stable conditions.
“We need God’s intervention for those in the hospital. Please pray for a divine miracle.”
Van Wyk says medical teams responded to the accident.
“The vehicle had to be cut open. This was the second serious accident in the Drakenstein Municipality-area on the same day. We urge people to drive safely.”
A culpable homicide case is currently being investigated.