Police are investigating two fatal crashes on the N1 near Bela-Bela in Limpopo after a tragic chain of events left three people dead.

The South African Police Service said the incident involving Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi’s official vehicle happened on Saturday, 9 May 2026.

According to SAPS, a woman was trying to cross the highway with her two children when they were hit by the minister’s official vehicle. One child was reportedly strapped to her back.

The mother and baby died from their injuries. A second child survived, although authorities have not released details about the child’s condition.

Family was Responding to Earlier Crash

Police said preliminary investigations show the woman and her children were trying to reach the scene of an earlier crash on the same stretch of road.

SAPS said the woman’s husband had allegedly been hit and killed by a vehicle driven by an off-duty police officer.

The second crash happened while the family was reportedly crossing the road.

Minister’s Vehicle Stopped at Scene

At the time of the collision, the state vehicle was being driven by a member of the Protection Security Services.

SAPS said Motsoaledi, his close protection officer and the driver stopped immediately after the crash. They remained at the scene until police and emergency medical services arrived.

Police said statements were later taken from those who were at the scene.

IPID Takes Over Investigation

Two separate culpable homicide cases have been opened.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate has taken over the investigation because both drivers involved in the incidents are members of the SAPS.

Police said investigations are continuing into the circumstances surrounding both crashes.

SAPS has also extended condolences to the bereaved family, describing the incident as a tragic loss.