Qonce, Eastern Cape – A wave of grief has swept through the Eastern Cape following a devastating car crash on the N2 near Bulembu Airport outside eQonce (formerly King Williams Town) that claimed the lives of seven people, including a child. The tragedy has left a community reeling, particularly after it emerged that those killed were a beloved local family – a school principal, her husband, their son, grandson, and an adopted daughter. The crash, which involved three vehicles, has prompted calls for increased road safety and accountability.
The collision occurred on February 11, 2026, and was reported by multiple news outlets, including SABC News and The Citizen. Provincial Transport Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose confirmed the opening of a culpable homicide investigation, emphasizing the department’s sorrow and urging motorists to exercise caution on the roads. “As the Eastern Cape Department of Transport, we are deeply saddened by this tragic accident…one death on our roads is one too many,” Binqose stated.
The victims have been identified as the principal of a local school, her husband, their son, their grandson, and an adopted daughter. TimesLIVE reported that the family was well-known and respected in the community. The identities of the occupants of the other vehicles involved have not been publicly released.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) shared an image of the crash scene on X (formerly Twitter), stating that three sustained injuries in addition to the seven fatalities.
#BREAKING_NEWS : Today 7 people have been killed in the crash and 3 sustained injuries on the N2 in Qonce EC. The cause of the crash is unknown and will be subject to the ongoing investigation. #ArriveAlive https://t.co/2wR7X2a2ij
— Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) (@TrafficRTMC) February 11, 2026
Details surrounding the cause of the crash remain under investigation. According to the Democratic Alliance, the incident demands “urgent accountability,” highlighting concerns about road safety in the region. The DA has called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the collision.
Community Mourns a Beloved Family
The loss of the principal, her husband, and their family has deeply affected the local school community and beyond. The principal’s school has not yet released an official statement, but sources indicate that grief counseling will be offered to students and staff. The family was described by those who knew them as dedicated members of the community, actively involved in local initiatives and known for their kindness and generosity.
N2 Safety Concerns Raised
This incident is not isolated. The N2 highway, a major transportation route in the Eastern Cape, has been the site of numerous accidents in recent years. The latest crash has reignited the debate about road safety measures along this stretch of highway, including the need for improved signage, increased law enforcement presence, and better road maintenance. The provincial transport department has pledged to review safety protocols and implement measures to prevent future tragedies.
Investigation Underway
Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators are gathering evidence from the scene, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing vehicle data to determine the cause of the collision. A culpable homicide case has been opened, and further details will be released as the investigation progresses. The SABC News reported that a bakkie carrying six passengers collided with a slight vehicle before hitting another bakkie.
The emotional toll on first responders and emergency personnel who attended the scene is also being acknowledged. Support services are being offered to those who were involved in the aftermath of the crash.
Looking Ahead
Funeral arrangements for the victims are underway, and the community is preparing to offer their support to the grieving family. Authorities have not yet announced a timeline for the completion of the investigation. Updates will be provided as they turn into available. The Eastern Cape Department of Transport has indicated that it will be reviewing its road safety strategies in light of this tragic event.
This is a developing story. We encourage readers to share their condolences and memories of the victims in the comments below.
