Pregnant woman allegedly run over by partner in Durban

Pregnant woman allegedly run over by partner in Durban! A pregnant woman was reportedly run over by her partner in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in a shocking incident that took place on Wednesday, January 5. The distressing event unfolded on Ridge Road in uMhlanga, where bystanders rushed to the aid of the injured woman, who had been left lying in the middle of the busy roadway.

According to KZN VIP Protection Services, emergency responders were called to the scene after reports of a pedestrian-vehicle accident. The organisation confirmed that the victim sustained serious injuries after allegedly being struck by a Ford Ranger, which was being driven by her partner.

Driver Fled the Scene

Eyewitnesses reported that the driver of the vehicle fled immediately after the incident, leaving the injured woman on the road as concerned community members stepped in to assist her.

“Following the incident, the driver fled the scene as community members came forth to assist the lady who laid in the middle of the busy roadway,” KZN VIP Protection Services stated.

Emergency medical personnel from KZNVIP Medics arrived promptly, working to stabilise the injured woman before rushing her to a medical facility for urgent treatment.

The South African Police Service (SAPS), along with other relevant stakeholders, attended the scene and are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged hit-and-run.

Concerns Over Unborn Child’s Health

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the woman’s unborn child has been affected by the traumatic incident. However, experts warn that violence during pregnancy can have devastating consequences for both the mother and her baby.

According to the Perinatal Mental Health Project at the University of Cape Town (UCT), pregnant women who experience physical abuse or trauma may suffer from serious health complications, including:

• Low birth weight of the baby
• Foetal death due to placenta abruption
• Excessive bleeding (haemorrhage) after birth
• Foetal fractures
• Rupture of the uterus
• Premature labour

The institute further highlighted the psychological effects of violence during pregnancy, which include:

• Low self-esteem
• Depression and anxiety
• Substance or alcohol abuse

Experts stress that domestic violence can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, leading to long-term health problems for both mother and child.

Domestic Violence and Pregnancy: A Growing Concern

Incidents of violence against pregnant women have raised alarm in South Africa, with advocacy groups urging authorities to take stronger action against gender-based violence (GBV).

Studies indicate that pregnant women who experience intimate partner violence often suffer from delayed medical care, which can further endanger their health and well-being.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that one in three women globally experience physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives, and for many, the risk increases during pregnancy.

Organisations that support victims of abuse urge pregnant women in danger to seek help from healthcare professionals, law enforcement, or social workers, as early intervention can be life-saving.

Similar Incident in Durban in 2021

The horrific case in uMhlanga is not the first incident of a pregnant woman being struck by a vehicle in Durban. In May 2021, a municipal worker, who was also pregnant, was hit by a car while cleaning a road in the Durban CBD.

According to Emer-G-Med KZN spokesperson Kyle van Reenen, emergency responders arrived swiftly to stabilise the injured worker.

“Once the woman was stabilised at the site, she was transported to the hospital for further medical attention,” Van Reenen stated.

The similarities between these cases highlight serious concerns about pedestrian safety, reckless driving, and violence against women—particularly those who are pregnant.

Call for Justice and Stricter Protections

Following the uMhlanga incident, activists and members of the public have called for swift action from authorities to ensure that the driver responsible is arrested and held accountable.

Gender-based violence (GBV) activists argue that pregnant women should be protected from harm, and tougher legal consequences should be enforced against perpetrators of domestic violence.

Meanwhile, law enforcement officials are urging witnesses to come forward with any additional information that could aid in the ongoing investigation.

Seeking Help and Support

For pregnant women facing domestic violence, it is crucial to seek support from professionals who can help provide safety, counseling, and legal assistance.

Women in distress can contact the following support organisations in South Africa:

• GBV Hotline: 0800 428 428
• People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA): 011 642 4345
• Thuthuzela Care Centres: (Available at hospitals and clinics for survivors of abuse)

Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding the uMhlanga hit-and-run to report it to the nearest police station or contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Conclusion

The alleged incident involving a pregnant woman being run over by her partner is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by women in abusive relationships.

As investigations continue, the public and advocacy groups remain watchful, demanding justice for the victim and stronger protections for pregnant women against violence and neglect.

The case serves as an urgent call to action for communities, law enforcement, and policymakers to take domestic violence more seriously and ensure that no woman—especially one carrying a child—has to suffer such brutality again.