GEORGE NEWS - All casualties had already been removed from a container and building by the time George Fire and Rescue Services arrived at the scene of Tuesday’s tragic farm incident near Herold’s Bay, which claimed the lives of Mario Lombard (41), Pule Johannes Moshane (36) and Tiisetso Victor Masela (33).
The three men were reportedly overcome by fumes while flushing drip irrigation pipes on the farm.
New details released by George Municipality shed light on the emergency response to the incident on 13 October, which involved suspected exposure to hazardous chemicals.
According to the municipality’s director of community safety and mobility, Lee-Anne Meiring, emergency services received a call reporting that people had allegedly fallen into a tank.
“The first fire vehicle arrived at the scene at 11:22. Metro Ambulance personnel were already on site, and all casualties had been removed from the container and building. Ambulance personnel were conducting triage and providing medical treatment,” Meiring said.
George Fire and Rescue Services assisted with the emergency response, following the relevant safety procedures and using specialised protective equipment where necessary.
Investigation continues
The exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy, including what happened before emergency services arrived and the cause of death, remain under investigation by the police.
Meiring said the municipality would not speculate on the circumstances of the incident while the investigation is ongoing.
“The municipality respects the investigative process and will refrain from commenting on details that could potentially compromise the ongoing investigation.”
The Department of Employment and Labour, relevant environmental authorities and law enforcement agencies have also been notified.
Meanwhile, George Mayor Browen Johnson has expressed his condolences to the families of the three men who died.
“This is a deeply tragic incident that has affected our community. On behalf of George Municipality, I extend my sincere condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the three men who lost their lives. Our thoughts are also with everyone affected by this tragedy,” Johnson said.
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