A well-known attorney from a firm in Mbombela died on Monday morning after being attacked and shot in the Plaston area.
Gerrit Stander (38), an attorney of Swanepoel & Partners, was overpowered by a group of men around 02:00.
According to his father, Martiens, who stays on the same property, the suspects allegedly cut the electric fence and broke down the security door and front door to gain access to the house.
“The dog which was in the house at the time, started barking which woke Gerrit up. Upon arrival in the dining area, a scuffle ensued and he was shot three times. His wife, Yolandi, had sent out a cry for help on the area’s WhatsApp group, to which I responded,” Martiens said.
Upon his arrival he discovered his son on the floor.
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Christiaan, Gerrit’s younger brother, rushed him to Kiaat Private Hospital while their father stayed behind to look after Gerrit’s eight-year-old.
Around 07:00 the family received the news that Gerrit had lost a lot of blood and succumbed to his injuries. “We are grateful that we had time to say goodbye,” Martiens said.
The suspects fled on foot, with two cell phones, a laptop and television. This is a developing story and more details will be added as soon as they become available.
The police confirmed that a case of house robbery and murder has been opened. They appeal to members of the public to assist with information regarding this incident by contacting John Mabunda on 082-449-0334 or to call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111. Alternatively a tip-off can be given on the MySAPSApp that can be downloaded to any smartphone. All information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
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