Manenberg Mother Killed by Taxi Running Red Light
Family Mourns the Loss of Louise Diedericks
A Manenberg family is grieving the tragic loss of 50-year-old Louise Diedericks, a mother of four, who was fatally struck by a taxi on Monday night while crossing Duinefontein Road. The devastating incident has reignited concerns over reckless driving and the urgent need for traffic safety measures in the area.
Tragic Accident on Duinefontein Road
The fatal crash occurred at the intersection of Duinefontein Road and Jordaan Street, where heartbroken family members gathered after receiving the devastating news. Diedericks’ daughter, Laeeqah Swartz, 29, recounted the heartbreaking moment she learned about her mother’s passing.
“My mom has four children and three grandchildren. She was on her way home from work when the accident happened. I was at home when I heard about it, and I ran to the scene with my friends, but they had already covered her face,” Laeeqah shared.
Witnesses Confirm Reckless Driving
Eyewitnesses reported that the taxi driver ignored a red traffic light before hitting Diedericks.
“The people at the scene told us that the driver ran a red robot and struck her as she was crossing,” Laeeqah explained. “She was still in the yellow lane when the taxi crashed into her. Because of the severity of her injuries, she passed away on the spot.”
The taxi driver was immediately taken into police custody following the accident.
Community Calls for Urgent Traffic Safety Measures
Diedericks’ tragic death has once again brought attention to the dangers of Duinefontein Road. Many residents have raised concerns about speeding and reckless driving, particularly among taxi drivers.
Laeeqah emphasized the community’s frustration, stating, “People drive like ‘padvarke’ (reckless drivers), and everyone knows it.”
Manenberg Community Police Forum (CPF) representative Vernon Visagie echoed these concerns, calling for immediate action.
“The problem with Duinefontein Road is that it is a major arterial route that runs through Manenberg and Heideveld. The speed at which people drive is alarming,” Visagie stated.
High Accident Rate and Previous Safety Requests Ignored
According to Visagie, many fatalities have been recorded on Duinefontein Road due to motorists disregarding traffic signals, especially taxis.
“So many lives have been lost because taxis ignore red lights,” he emphasized.
The CPF has been pushing for traffic calming measures for some time, but previous requests for speed humps were denied due to the road’s status as a main arterial route.
“It is a key route for taxis, and the last time we asked for speed humps, authorities said they weren’t feasible,” Visagie explained.
Proposal for a Pedestrian Footbridge
As an alternative, the CPF has proposed the construction of a pedestrian footbridge to enhance safety for residents, especially schoolchildren.
“We’ve suggested a footbridge, though we don’t know if it’s a viable solution. However, something must be done before more lives are lost,” Visagie stressed.
Legal Action Against the Taxi Driver
Police spokesperson Captain Ian Bennett confirmed the incident, stating, “A 50-year-old woman was declared deceased at the scene.”
He further confirmed that the 31-year-old taxi driver is facing charges of culpable homicide and reckless and negligent driving. He is expected to appear in Athlone Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
A Heartbreaking Loss for the Diedericks Family
Laeeqah expressed the deep sorrow her family is experiencing, saying, “My mom was a loving person. She worked every day to support us, and we still can’t believe she is gone. We are going to miss her so much.”
As the family mourns their loss, the community continues to demand urgent action to prevent further tragedies on Duinefontein Road.
