Young boy killed in illegal drag race, community sets vehicles alight

An eight-year-old boy was killed while multiple others were injured in an illegal drag racing incident in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni in Gauteng. 

The incident happened on Sunday night, 8 January 2022, at the corner of Simunye Street and Madikizela Drive in Etwatwa. 

YOUNG BOY KILLED IN ILLEGAL DRAG RACE

According to the City of Ekurhuleni, it is alleged that a Toyota Etios and a Nissan NP1400 partook in an illegal drag race. The driver of the Toyota Etios allegedly lost control of the vehicle and collided with a group of minors and adults. The victims are aged between eight and 37 and were walking on the pavement. 

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“An eight-year-old boy died on the scene, and two boys aged 12 years old sustained minor injuries and were transported to a hospital for treatment. Three other pedestrians aged 12, 30, and 37 were treated for shock by emergency services.”

The Toyota Etios driver, who is estimated to be around 50 years old, was allegedly attacked by community members, and his vehicle set alight. He was also transported to the hospital for treatment. 

“Furthermore, the unknown driver of the Nissan NP 1400 fled the scene on foot to avoid the violent community members who also set alight his abandoned vehicle,” the City said. 

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Etwatwa is investigating a case of culpable homicide. 

The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department has since urged community members to immediately report illegal drag racing to authorities and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.  

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