Former Springbok rugby player Pedrie Wannenburg has been killed in a car accident.
News of the tragedy emerged on Saturday following the fatal incident in the US on Friday, which is reported to have happened when a high speed police chase ended in a multi-vehicle collision.
According to local news reports in Harris County, Houston, Texas, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said a deputy had attempted to pull over a 16-year-old suspect, only for the car to speed away and lead to a chase.
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The suspect eventually crashed into the back of Wannenburg's car near an intersection. The 41-year-old, along with his son Francois, was flown to hospital but later died to his injuries. His son is reported to be undergoing treatment, while wife Evette and daughter Isabelle escaped serious injury. The driver and two passengers of the suspect vehicle were taken to hospital.
Back-rower Wannenburg, who played 20 times for South Africa, was a rugby coach for Austin Elite in the North American Major League Rugby competition. He initially moved to the US some years ago while still playing.
He's previously represented the Bulls, becoming a legend at the club, and also played for Ulster and Castres.
Former Ulster team-mate Stephen Ferris said: "Extremely sad news to wake up to this morning. Former team mate at Ulster, Pedrie Wannenburg, has tragically passed away in a car accident. Pedrie was a legend of the game and one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. Thoughts are with his wife Evette and his young kids."
A Bulls statement read: "We are devastated at the passing of Vodacom Bulls legend Pedrie Wannenburg. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Wannenburg family."
