Gauteng school mourns death of learner

The 8-year-old tragically died after being electrocuted by illegal electrical connections in Kliptown.

Jabez Julius (8) lost his life as a result of illegal electricity connections. Photo supplied

Gauteng primary school Laerskool Theo Wassenaar is mourning the death of Jabez Julius (8), who tragically died after being electrocuted on December 12, Southern Courier reports.

On the morning of December 12, Jabez went with a few friends to the river in Kliptown to collect some clay. There are illegal electrical connections running through the river, and little Jabez fell victim to one of these when he was electrocuted and lost his life.

“Jabez was in my Grade 1 class. He was a loving child who was always pleasant and cheerful and who loved playing with clay,” recalled teacher Henriette Lues.

Henriette said when she gave Jabez his report on December 6, she did not know it was the last time she would see his smile. “I am so heartbroken,” she said. “My deepest sympathy to his family.”

“We are going to miss you, Jabez, and know that God needed one more rose to fill his garden,” said the principal, Firzaana Tagari, and the staff at Wassies. “Our heartfelt condolences to the family.”

SCENE: The illegal connection where Jabez Julius lost his life. Photo supplied

Jabez leaves behind his parents, three older siblings and his grandfather.

His parents thanked everyone in the community and the staff of Laerskool Theo Wassenaar for their generous contribution during this difficult time. “May God bless all of you,” they said.