Durban — A Merebank tow truck driver died under mysterious circumstances when he attended a collision scene on the N2 freeway near the old Durban International Airport on Friday night.
Emer-G-Med paramedics said a multiple vehicle collision occurred, leaving five people with injuries ranging from minor to moderate.
On arrival at the scene, a man was found to have sustained fatal gunshot injuries.
Colin Pillay, 52, was found next to his tow truck with gunshot wounds to the head.
According to Merebank community activist Raven Naidoo, an altercation occurred between other tow truck drivers attending the scene but from different towing companies.
Naidoo said paramedics and the motorists involved in the collision allegedly witnessed the verbal argument and subsequent shooting.
Naidoo said when he arrived at the scene he was devastated.
Isipingo Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson Aidan David said there were conflicting reports of what happened.
David said there was intense competition and territorial boundaries that tow truck drivers and owners were aware of.
“We have advised those in the towing business to apply a sense of mind and sound discussions at the scene instead of resorting to verbal threats that end in this manner,” David said.
Pillay is survived by his three sons aged 10, 8, and 5 months old.
According to Pillay’s wife, Samantha Pillay, he had attended a collision scene on the M4 near Merebank and returned home to have supper. Pillay then received a voice note on one of the WhatsApp groups informing him about another collision but was reluctant to leave.
“When he heard there were three cars involved near the airport, he decided to rush off. He made his income this way. Later I received a call from a stranger informing me of my husband's death. The police nor anyone have not told me the truth as to what had happened.
“Neither did the police come home for any statements. He was the breadwinner. I want justice for my kids. Whoever did this must be caught,” Samantha said.
Pillay’s funeral is scheduled to take place on Wednesday. Pillay was also preparing for his son’s 8th birthday party on Tuesday.
Pillay was an active member of the Merewent CPF and a tow truck driver for two decades.
Naidoo said Pillay had come to him for advice on applying for jobs outside the tow truck field.
“Pillay helped to feed the impoverished people on his own accord during the April floods . He had good qualities. He never owned a firearm.
“He was concerned about his own safety and wanted to get out of the towing because of the dangers. They had already assaulted him. Why kill him? Now his family has to suffer the consequences,” Naidoo said.
Police spokesperson Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said Isipingo police received a complaint of a murder on N2 South Bound at 20:15 pm and proceeded to the scene. On arrival they found the body of a 52-year-old man with a gunshot wound on the head.
“It is alleged the victim had an argument with four males who were in a white vehicle. One suspect withdrew his fire and fatally shot the victim,” Ngcobo said.
A case of murder was opened for investigation.
Daily News