A suspected robber met a fatal end on Monday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle while attempting to flee a crime scene along the R102 near Southridge Circle. The dramatic turn of events unfolded shortly after 4:00 PM, leaving one suspect dead and another on the run.
Pedestrian Collision Unmasks Crime
Emergency services initially responded to what appeared to be a pedestrian accident. Upon arrival, paramedics found a man with multiple traumatic injuries lying on the roadside. He was declared dead on the scene.
However, the story quickly evolved.
From Cellphone Robbery to Deadly Chase
Preliminary investigations revealed the deceased and an accomplice had moments earlier robbed two men of their cellphones in the nearby Southridge area. The victims gave chase, leading the suspects onto the busy highway during peak traffic.
In a frantic attempt to escape, one of the suspects ran into the path of a white Ford Bantam bakkie, which struck him at high speed.
Evidence Left Behind
A kitchen knife, believed to have been used in the robbery, and two stolen cellphones were found near the suspect’s body. The second suspect reportedly managed to flee the scene and is still at large.
Police Continue the Hunt
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has opened a case of robbery and culpable homicide. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby businesses and appealing to the public for information that could help identify or locate the fleeing suspect.
Community Reacts
Residents of Verulam have expressed a mix of shock and concern. “Crime in this area has been rising. It’s tragic that someone had to die — but people are getting desperate,” said a loc
