A routine commute turned into a devastating tragedy early this morning in Addo, Eastern Cape, when a vehicle attempting to navigate a flooded bridge was swept into the Coerney River. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that they have launched an extensive search and rescue operation, though the event has already claimed two lives.
The incident occurred at approximately 03:30 on Saturday, 6 June 2026, along Slagboom Road. A white Toyota Hilux bakkie, carrying five Zimbabwean nationals, attempted to cross a low-water bridge that had become submerged. The force of the water proved too powerful, pushing the vehicle off the bridge and into the river.
The sequence of events
According to preliminary reports, the vehicle's seating arrangement played a critical role in the immediate aftermath. Three males, aged between 34 and 50, were seated in the front of the vehicle, while two other individuals, aged 30 to 35, were situated in the rear load bed, which was not covered by a canopy.
When the vehicle was swept away, the three occupants in the front cabin became trapped as the vehicle entered the water. Fortunately, the two individuals in the rear were able to escape by jumping from the bakkie and successfully reaching safety.
Rescue and recovery operations
Following the report of the incident, a multi-agency search and rescue effort was immediately mobilised. The operation includes personnel from the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality, and specialised EMS Rescue teams. Despite their efforts, rescuers have recovered two bodies from the river, both of whom were Zimbabwean nationals and were declared deceased by emergency medical services on the scene.
Ongoing investigation
As of this evening, the search for the third missing individual – the 35-year-old driver of the vehicle – remains ongoing. SAPS officials have confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened and an investigation into the full circumstances of the tragedy is currently underway. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the extreme dangers associated with attempting to cross flooded roads or bridges during adverse weather conditions.