Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) Chief Provincial Inspector Timothy “Tim” Shane Simpson was laid to rest on Saturday, October 10, on what would have been his 60th birthday, as family, friends and colleagues celebrated a life dedicated to protecting road users.

Simpson, who died on September 22 after a state-owned vehicle he was travelling in caught fire while on duty on the N2 freeway in Park Rynie, was remembered for his professionalism, integrity and commitment to traffic law enforcement.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma paid tribute to Simpson, highlighting his contribution to road safety and the transformation of the RTI into a service more closely aligned with the communities it serves.

Born on October 10, 1966, Simpson was raised by his mother, Dawn Simpson, alongside his siblings, Blythe and Shane. He attended Holy Cross Convent before completing his schooling at Ixopo High School.

His passion for road safety developed in the late 1980s, and he joined the RTI in Kokstad in 1990. Five years later, he moved to Umdoni Local Municipality, where he helped introduce community-focused traffic management and road safety initiatives.

In 2005, he returned to the RTI and was stationed at Park Rynie. Known as a no-nonsense officer, Simpson earned the respect of colleagues through his dedication and meticulous approach to his responsibilities.

According to Duma, Simpson played an important role in the #NenzaniLaEzweni operation, contributing to the enforcement and prosecution of speeding and drunk-driving cases. His work involved collaboration between RTI Park Rynie, the National Prosecuting Authority and Scottburgh Magistrates’ Court.

His contribution was recognised through several accolades. In 2024, he received the MEC’s Service Excellence Award for Bravery, followed by the Highest Speed Recorded Award at the #NenzaniLaEzweni Awards Ceremony in 2025.

While his professional achievements left a lasting mark, Simpson was equally cherished at home. His wife, Violie, daughters Lisa Ann and Katie Dawn, and grandson Lachlan will remember him as a loving husband, attentive father and gentle grandfather.

Away from work, he enjoyed cricket and rugby and was a passionate supporter of the Springboks.

As loved ones bid him farewell, Simpson was remembered as a dedicated public servant whose years of service helped strengthen road safety and inspire younger law enforcement officers.