St Stithians college refuted media reports that a Grade 12 pupil died after excessively drinking alcohol to celebrate his final formal day of school.
According to the college’s communication coordinator, Lethabo-Thabo Royds, the boy died while he was at his private home. Independent Online quoted unknown sources alleging that a Matric pupil dies after allegedly drinking alcohol with friends as they celebrated their last day of school.
Independent Online quoted unknown sources alleging that a Matric pupil died after allegedly drinking alcohol with friends when they celebrated their last day of school.
The College announced in a statement that it was with a profound and deep sense of sadness to inform the public of the passing of, Cameron Conlon, during the night of 13 October.
“The St Stithians community is in mourning. We keep Cameron’s family and friends in our thoughts and prayers on this very tragic day. The final chapel for the Matrics was scheduled to take place on Friday morning, last week, and with the blessing of Cameron’s family, we went ahead with the service,” read the statement.
The final chapel ceremony is one of celebration and joy as the school bids farewell to the Matrics – a time of many mixed emotions.
“Cameron was passionate about drama, having received his Cultural Honours for drama. He also received the MacNicol Prize for Creativity at Wednesday night’s prize giving. He was fun-loving and a good friend to many. We will miss his cheerful smile and his positive attitude”, said head of St Stithians Boys’ College David Knowles.
The College’s Rector Dr Tim Nuttall said the College’s community was deeply saddened by the death of Conlon. “We know that there is speculation about the cause of Cameron’s death. We request respect for the family at this time of grieving and we will issue a further statement when more information is available,” he said.
Knowles added that the family was waiting for the results of the autopsy, which will determine the cause of his passing.
“We appreciate the support we have received from the Saints community, and the wider school community in Gauteng and beyond,” said Knowles.
