The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has confirmed that the N12 Freeway in Bassonia has been officially reopened to traffic in both directions following a fatal gas tanker explosion.
The N12 freeway was closed after an LPG gas tanker caught alight on the N12 near the Comaro Road off-ramp in southern Johannesburg on Sunday morning.
Hazardous
The crash, which claimed one life, shut down the highway in both directions for several hours.
Emergency services declared the scene highly hazardous due to the risk of the explosion.
Safe
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said traffic can now flow freely on the route.
“Following the fatal collision and subsequent gas tanker fire that occurred yesterday, April 19, 2026, emergency teams have successfully completed the high-risk decanting process and the necessary mop-up operations.
“The roadway has been declared safe for public use, and all previously active diversions at the R59 Reading Interchange and Comaro Road have been lifted,” Fihla said.
Appreciation
Fihla extend JMPD’s gratitude to the “dedicated teams” who worked tirelessly under hazardous conditions to secure the scene.
“We also thank the public and the residents of the southern suburbs for their extreme patience and cooperation while these essential operations were carried out.”
TRAFFIC ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE19 APRIL 2026
UPDATE: FATAL COLLISION AND TANKER FIRE ON N12 NEAR BASSONIA: TOTAL ROAD CLOSURE
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), in conjunction with the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS), is… pic.twitter.com/quZxg8agUz
– Jo’burg Metro Police Department – JMPD (@JoburgMPD) April 19, 2026
Road rage
Meanwhile, a suspected road rage incident turned deadly in Johannesburg after one person was shot dead and two others were wounded.
The shooting occurred in Emmarentia on Sunday, 19 April 2026. It is believed that the incident followed a minor bumper-bashing.
According to Gauteng Police, the suspected road rage incident turned deadly when both drivers allegedly drew their firearms after a woman believed to be the wife of the men retrieved a gun from one of the vehicles.
Gauteng police spokesperson, Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, said they are investigating cases of murder and attempted murder.
Police said Investigations into the incident are continuing.
