A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the town of Middelburg in Mpumalanga, where a light aircraft crash claimed the lives of Quinton and Lizette Steyn. The couple, aged 39 and 38, died on the afternoon of Sunday, May 18, 2025, when their small aircraft went down near Botshabelo Airfield.
According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, the Steyns were travelling from Nelspruit back home to Middelburg when disaster struck. Emergency teams were quickly dispatched, but by the time they arrived, the aircraft was engulfed in flames. Sadly, the couple was burned beyond recognition.
Investigations are currently underway to determine what caused the fatal crash. Aviation experts have been called in to examine the wreckage and gather crucial information.
Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi extended sincere condolences to the Steyns’ family and loved ones, expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss.
This incident comes just weeks after another aviation scare, when a light aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing on Tinley Manor Beach in KwaZulu-Natal. In that case, thanks to quick action and skilled piloting, no injuries were reported.
While aviation emergencies remain rare, these incidents highlight the importance of rapid response and ongoing vigilance in air safety.