Remembering 29-year-old “JJ” Swanepoel after a fatal head-on collision in Mayville, Pretoria, and the urgent road-safety lessons his passing leaves behind.
The Pretoria community is reeling after the heartbreaking death of Juan Jacques Swanepoel “JJ”, a 29-year-old man known for his gentle nature and eagerness to help anyone in need. JJ’s life was cut short on Saturday, 21 June 2025 when his motorcycle crashed head-on with a car at the corner of Fred Nicholson and Rhys Streets in Mayville. Friends remember the confessed computer whiz as a shy but loyal companion who had recently found a new passion in bike-riding weekends with his close-knit circle.
What Happened on That Fateful Day?
According to eyewitness reports and his stepmother, Ursula Els, JJ was en route to visit her when tragedy struck:
- Initial Impact: JJ’s motorcycle crashed head-on with an oncoming vehicle.
- Secondary Trauma: A second driver—unable to stop in time—drove over him, forcing emergency crews to jack the car up to free him.
- Injuries Sustained: Broken neck, back, both arms and legs, plus severe facial trauma once his helmet was removed.
Paramedics declared JJ deceased at the scene despite rapid response efforts. Traffic investigators have since launched a formal inquiry to establish precise causation and any potential negligence.
A Family’s Double Blow
Heartbreak is no stranger to the Swanepoel household. JJ’s biological mother passed away earlier this year, while his father died last year, leaving JJ and his stepsister Waunita clinging to each other for support. “They always said they were twins,” recalls Ursula. “Their bond was unbreakable.”
JJ moved in with the Els family at age nine, and his step-family describes him as “the kind of person who would pause his own dreams to lift others up.”
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Community Tributes & Support
Messages of condolence have flooded social media, many highlighting JJ’s kindness:
“He taught me to rebuild my first PC and never asked for anything in return.” – Former classmate
“Weekends won’t be the same without his infectious grin at our biker meet-ups.” – Riding buddy
Local motorcycle clubs plan a memorial ride-out through Pretoria North on 1 July to honour JJ’s life and raise awareness for rider safety.
Funeral Arrangements
Family, friends and members of the public are invited to celebrate JJ’s life:
- Date: Wednesday, 2 July 2025
- Time: 10:00 SAST
- Venue: Lewendewoord Westerlig Church, Niemand Street, Andeon, Pretoria
- Dress Code: Smart-casual with a touch of orange—JJ’s favourite colour
- Condolence Gifts: The family kindly requests donations to the Bikers for Justice Road-Safety Fund in lieu of flowers.
Road-Safety Lessons We Dare Not Ignore
South Africa records thousands of motorcycle-related fatalities each year. JJ’s passing underscores:
- Protective Gear Still Matters: Helmets reduce fatal head injury risk by up to 69 %.
- Visibility Is Vital: Reflective jackets and daytime running lights can slash collision likelihood.
- Speed and Spacing: Maintain defensive following distances; urban collisions often stem from misjudged gaps.
- Continuous Training: Refresher riding courses improve hazard perception skills—an investment no biker should skip.
Local authorities urge motorists to double-check blind spots and commit to the “Look Twice, Save a Life” campaign gaining momentum nationwide.
How You Can Help
- Share JJ’s Story: Spread awareness by reposting official news updates.
- Donate: Contribute to the Swanepoel family’s funeral costs or the aforementioned road-safety fund.
- Advocate: Petition your ward councillor for improved lighting and signage at high-risk intersections like Fred Nicholson and Rhys streets.
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