Northcliff community mourns the loss of 18-year-old Northcliff High School learner

Kyle Aiton died after a freak accident in Northcliff last week leaving his family and community in shock.

August 23, 2022

Emily Wellman Bain 2 minutes read

Kyle Aiton at Cape Vidal where he spent each of his 18 birthdays.

Kyle Aiton, an 18-year-old matric learner, fell from a balustrade and died while visiting with friends over the weekend.

The son of André and Lindie Aiton, and brother to Tristan, Aiton succumbed to his injuries after the accident in which he fell from a balcony.

Floral tributes laid at Northcliff High School for Kyle’s peers who lost a friend and schoolmate.

Kyle was a vibrant and much-loved young man who by all accounts had a bright and happy future to look forward to. “I can hardly recall a time that I saw him crying during his short life. He was happy and confident,” said André, who is also the managing director of Beagle Watch Armed Response.

Kyle Aiton with his motorbike for which he had recently got a licence to ride.

He spoke with his voice cracking about their annual fishing trips to Cape Vidal on the north coast. “We spent so much time together as a family; he was my best friend. My wife was so close to him too as she kept the home running while I was out working in a high-pressured job.”

Kyle Aiton was an awarded rugby player at Northcliff High School who was recently given a Gold Scroll award.

André said the family are overwhelmed by the number of calls and messages of love and support they have received. “Hearing from so many people has really touched us. We cannot thank everyone enough who has come forward, it has been unbelievable. We just don’t have the words to process what has happened.”

Kyle played sports, recently got his motorbike licence, loved fishing, and had a large circle of friends. The outpouring grief at Northcliff High School has been extraordinary and a testament to the very special person that he was.

Northcliff High School principal Walter Essex-Clark said, “Kyle will be remembered as a spontaneous and fun-loving young man. His cheerful disposition and kind nature drew people towards him and made him popular among his peers. His passing has left an empty space not only in the classroom and on the sports field, but in the hearts of his friends and teachers. You are deeply missed, Kyle, and will never be forgotten. Rest peacefully.”

Kyle and André Aiton after a successful fishing trip. Kyle was said to be his happiest when on the water.

The Fairland CPF chair Gulam Karim said, “This is a huge loss to his family, his friends, and colleagues at Northcliff High School. At only 18, he had a bright future ahead of him. On behalf of the Fairland SAPS and CPF we extend our heartfelt condolences to André, Lindie, Tristan and the rest of the family. May they be granted strength during this difficult time.”

Kyle Aiton shows off a massive fish he caught.

Fairland Police Station Commander Lieutenant Colonel Clive de Freitas when asked for comment said, “No suspicious activity or foul play suspected. It was a tragic accident and while the investigation is ongoing all evidence shows nothing untoward was taking place.”

Northcliff Melville Times would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Kyle. May they find peace and comfort during this difficult time.

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