Mother of Impala Park man shot by neighbour wants justice

“Losing a child is probably one of the worst things that can happen to a person. It takes almost superhuman strength to process and overcome the trauma. Death is a destroyer. It crushes a person; it does not get easier.”

These are the words of Magda Potgieter, the mother of Klaas du Toit (37). Du Toit was shot and killed by his neighbour, Evan Swanson in Impala Park on August 18.

According to a statement from the investigating officer, as read in court: “The accused allegedly left his residence at about 19:00 to speak to the deceased at his residence about loud music he allegedly played. “An altercation ensued between the accused and deceased in the deceased’s residence, proceeded to the street and got physical.

“The accused got injured. The accused allegedly went to his house to obtain a firearm, returned and allegedly shot the deceased.

“He then went back into his yard, leaving the deceased on the ground in front of the accused’s gate. The deceased sustained two bullet wounds and was certified dead on scene.”

Swanson was granted R5 000 bail on September 4 with the condition he resides with his daughter in Edenvale until the court finalises the matter. Furthermore, Swanson indicated to the court that the shooting was in self-defence.

The case was postponed to October 23 for further investigation. Close-knit family Potgieter said her son was “brutally murdered”, adding she started a petition on Facebook to oppose Swanson’s bail, which many people supported.

“It was a big shock for family and friends when we learnt he was granted bail. We were not aware that he applied for bail.”

According to Potgieter, they are a close, loving family.

“I raised my children with good morals. Klaas is the oldest of my twin sons. He would have celebrated his birthday on October 24.
“They also have a sister nine years younger.”

Potgieter pointed out that Du Toit sacrificed a lot. He worked abroad for three years to save money and returned to South Africa to be with his five-year-old daughter, creating a better life for her and raising her himself.

“He made a new start and was looking forward to the future. “He had barely moved into the house three weeks before his death,” she added.
“Klaas and his daughter were alone at home and he was preparing dinner for them moments before the ordeal.”

Loving son
The mother described her son as a loving, gentle person with a big heart.

“Even if he did not have a lot to give, he still did and had a soft heart for poor people on the street. Klaas and his twin brother were good rugby and cricket players and Klaas had a good sense of humour.

“He was a strict, hard-working, loving dad who put nail polish on his daughter’s nails with love and care. His children always came first. He was proud of them and very protective.

“Klaas leaves behind a son with special needs and a daughter who will never know their father for who and what he was. “He will not see her at her matric dance, walk her down the aisle at her wedding, hold his first grandchild or play with them and enjoy his retirement.”

Potgieter said Du Toit was popular and much loved by his friends. “He loved fishing, the outdoors, fast cars and motorcycles.

Klaas enjoyed life and was excited about the future. We planned to spend December holidays together as we live in the Cape.”
She added her son’s death touched many people’s lives.

“Everyone was shocked, sad and looking for justice. The 10 Commandments make it clear, you shall not murder. Justice will prevail. My child’s blood is on his hands. Klaas’ death is not in vain. “If you do the crime, you must do the time.”

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