Body of missing 55-year-old woman found
NIETGEDACHT – On the afternoon of 23 March, the body of a missing 55-year-old woman was found 10km north of Fourways, where the two Jukskei rivers meet between HeronBridge College and Lanseria in Nietgedacht.
Police have confirmed that it is the body of the missing Linda Bassingthwaighte who was swept away in a flash flood on 17 March, prompting an extensive search for her by community members, police, the K9 search unit and other search teams.
The woman got swept away after attempting to cross a low-lying bridge on 3rd Road in Chartwell.
Head of communications for Douglasdale Police Station, Warrant Officer Balan Muthan confirmed that her body was recovered by the search and rescue teams.
The chairperson of Douglasdale Community Policing Forum (CPF), Jean Berdou said, “On behalf of the Douglasdale CPF, we learnt that the body of the missing Linda Bassingthwaighte was located by search and rescue this afternoon, and we are heartbroken for the family at this time.”
The Douglasdale CPF also thanked the search and rescue participants for their incredible selflessness, dedication and professionalism to bring closure to Bassingthwaighte’s family.
Muthan explained that the woman was driving a Renault SUV on the bridge and due to the flood, the vehicle became afloat and she got out of the vehicle.
Search and rescue are still on the scene recovering Bassingthwaighte’s body.
Also read Daughter of missing woman allegedly swept away by flood speaks
Details: 011 699 1300.
