A Saturday morning meant to celebrate endurance, community spirit, and athletic excellence at the Soweto Marathon took a tragic turn when a taxi driver struck a participant along the race route. Organisers have confirmed that the driver has been arrested for reckless and negligent driving.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred during the early stages of the marathon when runners were making their way through one of the designated road closures. Despite clear barriers and traffic control measures in place, the taxi reportedly attempted to navigate through the restricted area, hitting a runner in the process.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, where the injured runner received immediate medical assistance before being transported to a nearby hospital. While the extent of the injuries has not been officially confirmed, marathon organisers stated that they are in close contact with the victim’s family and medical team.
“We are deeply disturbed by the incident,” organisers said in a statement. “The safety of our runners is our highest priority, and we are cooperating fully with authorities to ensure justice is served.”
Metro police swiftly intervened, arresting the driver on charges of reckless and negligent driving. Authorities have since launched a full investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the breach of the race route.
The Soweto Marathon, known as “The People’s Race,” attracts thousands of runners each year and is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and historic significance. This year’s edition continued despite the incident, but officials have stressed the need for even stronger road safety enforcement in future events.
Runners, supporters, and the broader community have expressed shock and outrage, calling for stricter penalties for motorists who endanger participants in organised sporting events.
As the investigation continues, organisers have urged the public to respect traffic regulations around major events and prioritise safety for all.