South African rapper Malome Vector, born Bokang Moleli, has tragically died in a car accident. The crash occurred on Wednesday evening in the Free State, while Vector was traveling with musical collaborators Lizwi Wokuqala and Puleng Phoofolo.

Ambitiouz Entertainment, Vector’s former record label, confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow. “With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of a brilliant talent; the Lion of Lesotho’s sun has set. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family and industry peers during this difficult time,” the label stated.

According to the Free State Department of Health, three men were pronounced dead at the scene on the N1 near Koppies turn-off, close to Kroonstad. Two other individuals, a man and a woman, were taken to Boitumelo Regional Hospital with injuries.

Sources informed News24 that Vector was en route from Gauteng to his native Lesotho to film a music video when the accident occurred around 13:00. The vehicle he was traveling in collided with a heavy motor vehicle. The cause of the crash is under investigation, though a burst tire may have contributed to the driver losing control.

Malome Vector gained significant recognition after moving to Johannesburg in 2020 and signing with Ambitiouz Entertainment, which discovered him through social media. His rise in South Africa was marked by his 2021 South African Music Award for Best Music Video of the Year, a collaboration with Miss Pru and Blaq Diamond.

Prior to his South African success, Vector was celebrated in Lesotho for hits like “Ichu” and “Motho Waka.” His debut album, “Karabo,” released in 2022, featured prominent artists such as Blaq Diamond, Intaba Yase Dubai, Wave Rhyder, Sjava, Ubuntu Band, and Ntate Stunna. The album, he noted, was a reflection of his personal journey and achievements.

Earlier this year, Vector also released a seven-track EP titled “1964,” featuring collaborations with Ntate Stunna and Mlindo The Vocalist.