Police Probe Fatal Tractor Accident Near Breyten

Police in Breyten are continuing investigations into a tragic incident that claimed the life of 61-year-old Bishop Fetjie Virginia Mngomezulu at Elim Farm, near Ermelo, on Wednesday, 5 November 2025.

According to authorities, officers responded to a report of an accident along the N11 road. On arrival, they found two men at the scene. One of them, Mr James Mngomezulu, identified himself as the husband of the deceased. He and a family friend, Mr Xaba, pointed out the body of an adult female lying in a pool of blood with no signs of life.

Mr Mngomezulu informed police that he had received a call from farm dwellers alerting him that a tractor was ploughing his field unexpectedly. He and Mr Xaba drove to the farm to investigate. Upon arrival, the deceased exited the vehicle and attempted to stop the tractor driver by waving her hands. She was struck by the hoe blades at the back of the tractor and subsequently run over. She died instantly.

It is alleged that the tractor driver continued driving and stopped only about 900 metres from where the incident occurred. Emergency medical services declared the victim dead at the scene.

A case of culpable homicide has been opened. The matter has been submitted to the Senior Public Prosecutor for further directives. No arrests have been made at this stage, and police investigations continue.