Limpopo – A tragic accident has cast a shadow over the New Year celebrations in Ga-Sekgopo Village outside Modjadjiskloof, Limpopo. Eighteen-year-old Motsatsi Ramalatso lost her life in the early hours of Wednesday, 1 January, after being struck by a truck.
According to witnesses, Motsatsi and a group of people returning from a local tavern were dancing in the road in front of a moving truck. Tragically, Motsatsi tripped and fell, resulting in the truck running over her. She was rushed to a local clinic, but sadly, she could not be saved and was transferred to Kgapane Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
Limpopo police spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Thakeng confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened. He stated: “She was rushed to a local clinic where she couldn’t be helped and was transported to Kgapane Hospital where she was certified dead on arrival. Circumstances leading to her death are unknown at this stage and investigations continue.” The police investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the accident.
The incident has left the community reeling. Eunice Sekgopo, a family spokeswoman, expressed the family's profound grief and shock: “We are hurt by the manner in which she lost her life. We were expecting a lot of good things from her considering she was still young. She was a good person and I’m lost for words.” The family is struggling to cope with the sudden and devastating loss of their young loved one.
Villagers share the family's sorrow, expressing their disbelief and sadness at the tragic turn of events. One villager commented: “This is very sad. No parent deserves to go through this, particularly on New Year’s Day. This is not a good way to start the new year.” The community mourns the loss of a young life, cut short under such heartbreaking circumstances.
Community leader Prince Marutha also expressed his deep concern over the incident, highlighting the tragic consequences of reckless behaviour during celebrations. He appealed to young people to exercise caution and responsibility during festive gatherings: “We therefore appeal to them to refrain from this behaviour when they celebrate as it doesn’t end well. We hope they will learn from this incident.” His words serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of safety and responsible celebration.
Motsatsi Ramalatso's funeral is scheduled for Thursday, 9 January. The community will gather to pay their final respects to the young woman whose life ended so abruptly on what should have been a joyous occasion.
