Update
GEORGE NEWS - For many, it was only a matter of time before tragedy would strike in Kaaimans Pass. Ongoing roadworks between Wilderness and Kraaibosch, broken-down trucks and fender benders have made this stretch of the N2 unpredictable, changing daily as the construction progressed. Motorists already find it hard to navigate the area - add darkness and alcohol to the mix, and the risk escalates.
A fatal accident on Thursday night, 13 March, resulted in the arrest of one person on charges of driving under the influence and culpable homicide.
This follows the death of Gregory 'Greg' Fareed Rhode (38), a well-known DJ, son, father and loving husband from Touwsranten.
Rhode's widow, Danielle, bravely fights back the tears during the interview, but manages to pay the most beautiful tribute to her husband and love of her life.
"Greg was my everything. We had been together for 21 years. He was the best husband and father to our 16-year-old son, Jay-Sean. From Grade 1 until last Saturday, he never missed a single one of our son's rugby matches. We did everything together. Now, waking up is painful. Our home is filled with photos, memories of the best man I've ever known," she says.
Rhode, who had been working in a club in George for the last 20 years, was on his way to work when the accident happened. He was the breadwinner going to earn money to look after his family - the way he always had.
"I just want justice to be served," says Danielle. "I'm not angry at the driver of the Hilux, I don't hate him, but Greg's death was more than just culpable homicide - it was murder."
Rhode's mother, Susan Fredericks, remembers her second-born as a very special child of immeasurable value. "Whenever I needed him, he was always there. Gregory was well known, and he helped many young people.
"He was an inspiration to the youth and a kind and sincere person with a gentle heart. He will be remembered for his laughter, his caring nature and the remarkable person he was," she says.
Seven Passes closed
In the meantime, the authorities have closed the Seven Passes Road, the only alternative road between George and Wilderness, with large heaps of sand. This means no vehicle, not even an emergency vehicle, would be able to access this road at present.
The road is the responsibility of Western Cape Province, not George Municipality.
However, members of the Wilderness Ratepayers and Residents Association have been in constant communication with the relevant authorities since June last year to keep things moving.
According to them, emergency funding has been allocated and a lot of work has been done. Public communication regarding timelines is expected soon.
Read a previous article: One arrested after fatal accident in Kaaimans Pass
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