Esterhuysen was one of several police officers at the roadblock at the broken traffic lights at Khutsong’s entrance on Saturday night.
According to Fochville police’s communication officer, Sgt Elsie Tshonte, a 20-year-old driver raced into the roadblock, hitting a stationary vehicle and WO Esterhuysen, who was controlling the traffic. The suspect tried to flee the scene, but other police members managed to stop him. It was established that he was drunk.
Esterhuysen was rushed to the hospital, where he suc- cumbed to his injuries.
He had been stationed at the Fochville Visible Policing Unit and boasted 27 years of loyal service.
After the incident, the Gauteng provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Elias Mawela, sent his heartfelt condolences to Esterhuysen’s family. He also recognised his contri-bution to the organisation during his years in the service.
A memorial service will be held for Esterhuysen at the Fochville Civic Centre at 11:00 on Friday, 22 October. Covid-19 regulations will be adhered to.
The driver who killed Esterhuysen was to appear in court on Monday.
Tributes poured in for Esterhuysen after his untimely death on duty. “WO Jan served the com- munity for many years. You will be missed, Jan!” said Mr Jurgens Bence of the West Rand Emergency Medical Services. He also called on residents to lay flowers at the Fochville police station in remembrance of Esterhuysen.
“He was a supportive commander, who was always a leader on the frontline. He was someone who would die for his people. He was known by all the components’ heads and, if he was given a task, he would do it to the best of his ability. I’m going to miss Oom Jan with his jokes, noise and shouting at everyone and sharing everything he is eating. The Fochville SAPS will never be the same without Oompie,” said Tshonte, who worked under Esterhuysen’s command since 2007.
