Cape Town - Free State Stars midfielder Sinethemba Jantjie was involved in a fatal car crash on Monday morning, the club confirmed.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Free State Stars midfielder Sinethemba Jantjie," Stars said in a statement.
"Mr Jantjie passed away in the early hours of the morning when his car was involved in an accident.
"The club plans to meet with Jantjie's family, after which they will give further details of the funeral and memorial arrangements."
Reports suggest that the accident occurred in Bethlehem at around 06:00.
Jantjie, 30, had signed a pre-contract agreement with Bidvest Wits ahead of the 2019/2020 season after his impressive displays caught the eye of Gavin Hunt.
The left winger, who was a late bloomer and made his top-flight debut in his late twenties, joined Stars from Mbombela United in July 2016.
He was set to link up with Wits on July 1, at the end of his current contract.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Free State Stars midfielder Sinethemba Jantjie. ??He was only 30 years old. RIP to a great player. ?? #RIPJantjiehttps://t.co/No31bT8ikk pic.twitter.com/ita0clmaDu
— FreeStateStars FC (@FreeStateStars) April 1, 2019
RIP Sinethemba Jantjie ?? Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends ??#WeAreUnited pic.twitter.com/rshWiI5aHu
— Maritzburg United FC (@MaritzburgUtd) April 1, 2019
Rest In Peace ?? ??Usuthu are saddened to hear of the passing of @FreeStateStars, midfielder Sinethemba Jantjie.To the family, friends and Ea Lla Koto, our thoughts and prayers are with you. #Usuthu_Unite pic.twitter.com/hATb31KX9Q
— AmaZulu FC (@AmaZuluFootball) April 1, 2019
Very sad to hear this news ..Jantjie my boy RIP. Condolences to his family and to all Free states stars family
— Luc eymael (@EymaelLuc) April 1, 2019
Our deepest condolences to the families, friends and football fraternity for the sad loss of @FreeStateStars player Sinethemba Jantjie. May his soul rest in peace #RIPJantjie #GoneTooSoon pic.twitter.com/bYYwI0DHDF
— SuperSport United FC (@SuperSportFC) April 1, 2019