A tragic incident at the Soweto Marathon has shocked the running community and the nation after a 45-year-old runner died following a collision with a taxi during the event. The taxi driver involved now faces the possibility of a murder charge, as prosecutors consider whether his actions amounted to more than negligence.
Dezireè du Plessis, a mother of two from Pretoria, was participating in the 30th edition of the Soweto Marathon when she was struck by a taxi that had entered a restricted section of the race route. She was one of nearly 13,000 runners taking part in the iconic event, which included the 42km, 21km and 10km races.
Severe Injuries and Emergency Surgery
Du Plessis sustained a severe intracranial haemorrhage as a result of the collision and was rushed for emergency medical treatment. She underwent urgent surgery in an effort to save her life. Despite the intervention and intensive care, she later succumbed to her injuries.
Her sister, Marijke Miller, confirmed her passing in a heartfelt message shared on social media.
“Dezzi breathed her last breath this morning and completed her race. She fought to the end but went soft and peaceful,” Miller wrote.
The message resonated deeply with fellow runners and members of the public, many of whom expressed grief and anger over the circumstances of her death.
Charge May Be Upgraded From Culpable Homicide to Murder
According to reports, AfriForum’s Private Prosecutions Unit revealed that the family has been informed by a senior prosecutor that the state is considering upgrading the charge against the taxi driver from culpable homicide to murder.
Advocate Gerrie Nel, head of the unit, submitted a letter to the Orlando Magistrate’s Court arguing that the driver, Thabang Ndlovu, should face a murder charge. Nel stated that available information suggests the driver ignored both verbal and physical warnings from traffic officials and proceeded into a clearly restricted marathon area.
Several runners reportedly had to move out of the way before Du Plessis was struck.
“Based on available information, it is reasonable to infer that the accused foresaw the possibility of hitting a runner and acted deliberately,” Nel said.
Allegations of Reckless Driving and Alcohol Use
The taxi driver was initially arrested on charges of reckless and negligent driving and was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Although he was granted bail, he remains in custody while investigations continue and prosecutors consider the possible upgrading of charges.
AfriForum spokesperson Barry Bateman noted that Du Plessis came from a police family, with both her parents having served in the South African Police Service. He stressed the importance of accountability and justice for her family, particularly her mother and sister.
Bateman added that AfriForum is fully supporting both the South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority in ensuring the case is handled thoroughly and fairly.
Court Appearance Scheduled
The matter has been postponed to allow for further investigation, with the driver’s next court appearance scheduled for 27 February 2026. The outcome of the decision to upgrade the charge could have significant legal implications, not only for this case but for how similar incidents are prosecuted in future.
Safety Concerns Raised Over Marathon Routes
The tragedy has reignited concerns about safety at large-scale public sporting events, particularly regarding traffic management and enforcement along race routes. The Soweto Marathon is one of South Africa’s most prominent road races, and questions are now being asked about whether sufficient measures were in place to prevent vehicles from accessing restricted areas.
For many runners, road closures are a matter of trust: trust that officials, law enforcement and event organisers have created a safe environment. When that trust is broken, the consequences can be devastating.
As the legal process unfolds, Du Plessis’s death stands as a stark reminder that behind every race number is a person, a family and a life that matters far beyond the finish line.
