READ: Truck Crash on M4 Southern Freeway Causes Chaos and Road Closure

Merebank, Durban – On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a severe truck crash disrupted the M4 Southern Freeway southbound near Merebank, south of Durban, leaving one driver critically injured and two others with moderate injuries. The incident, which occurred in the afternoon, led to significant emergency response efforts and a prolonged road closure.

The crash involved a heavy-duty truck that collided with another vehicle, causing the truck to overturn and land on its roof, blocking the freeway. The truck driver was severely entrapped, requiring immediate intervention from ALS Paramedics, eThekwini Fire Department, and Redline Rescue. Rescuers worked to free the driver while Advanced Life Support Paramedics stabilized him on-site. He was then transported to Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital for further treatment. The two occupants of the second vehicle, who sustained moderate injuries, were treated at the scene and taken to a nearby hospital.

The M4 Southern Freeway was closed at the Merebank offramp to facilitate recovery operations, causing significant traffic disruptions. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is investigating the cause of the crash, which remains unknown at this stage.

This report provides a concise analysis of the truck crash on the M4 Southern Freeway near Merebank, south of Durban, on May 7, 2025. It details the incident, emergency response, and ongoing investigation, ensuring accuracy and clarity based on available facts.

On Wednesday afternoon, May 7, 2025, a heavy-duty truck collided with another vehicle on the M4 Southern Freeway near Merebank, causing the truck to overturn and block the southbound lanes. The truck driver was severely entrapped, and two occupants of the second vehicle sustained moderate injuries. The crash disrupted traffic and prompted a robust emergency response.

ALS Paramedics, supported by eThekwini Fire Department and Redline Rescue, responded promptly. The truck driver was freed from the wreckage, stabilized by Advanced Life Support Paramedics, and transported to Ahmed Al-Kadi Private Hospital. The two other injured individuals were treated on-site and taken to a nearby hospital.

The M4 was closed at the Merebank offramp for recovery, causing delays. SAPS is investigating the cause, with no details yet available on contributing factors.

The May 7, 2025, crash on the M4 Southern Freeway underscores the critical role of emergency services in managing severe incidents. The ongoing SAPS investigation will provide further clarity on the cause, informing future road safety measures.