Durban – A domestic dispute took a harrowing turn on Sunday, 9 March 2025, when a Durban man allegedly attempted to kill himself and his wife after she discovered evidence of his infidelity. The incident occurred on Hazelmere Road, leaving the wife injured and the husband on the run.
According to Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) spokesman Prem Balram, reaction officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving a call for assistance. Upon arrival, they found a brown Nissan SUV crashed in a bush along the road.
Balram explained that the 49-year-old female passenger informed the officers that she and her husband were travelling from Cottonlands to Mhlasini, KZN, when she discovered female clothing in his car.
"The 49-year-old woman passenger told reaction officers she and her husband were travelling from Cottonlands to Mhlasini, KZN when she found female clothing in his car."
The discovery sparked a heated argument, during which the husband allegedly threatened to end both their lives.
"He veered off the road as he intended to crash into a tree, but the vehicle struck a boulder and came to a stop. The woman sustained injuries to her back and was transported to hospital by ambulance," Balram stated.
Fortunately, the driver escaped the crash without any injuries. However, he allegedly fled the scene immediately after the incident.
KZN police spokeswoman Captain Ntathu Ndlovu confirmed that police in Verulam are investigating the matter. "This follows an incident that took place on Sunday, 9 March 2025, in the Mahlasini area where a known suspect allegedly attempted to kill a 48-year-old woman by allegedly driving the vehicle inside the bushes. The suspect then allegedly jumped out of the vehicle and fled the scene," she said.
Police are currently investigating a case of common assault and attempted murder. The suspect remains at large, and authorities are urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to come forward.
The wife was transported to a local hospital where she is receiving treatment for her back injuries. Her current condition is unknown.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of infidelity and the importance of seeking help when facing relationship difficulties. Support services are available for individuals experiencing domestic disputes or contemplating suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) or your local crisis hotline.
