On 24 January, the Herald visited the family of the suspect in the New Year’s Eve murder of Danél Rooskrans.
His mother, Anastasia* 54, and sister, Tarryn*, 35, were willing to tell their story. They believe it is important that Rooskrans’ parents, Maureen and Dudley Michael, their extended family and the community know how they feel.
Read the initial article here: JUST IN: Woman beaten to death on New Year’s Eve
It was an emotional interview during which both woman wept. They feel the community should not blame them for Rooskrans’ death.
“He has always had respect for everyone, he draws beautifully, and he truly loved Danél. Their 10-month-old baby boy that was born out of their six-year relationship and Danél’s three-year-old son were his life,” Anastasia said about her son.
She continued by saying that he treated Rooskrans’ child like his own and that Rooskrans was part of their family. She often visited them. Most importantly, they feel they have not only lost Rooskrans, their son and brother, but what really breaks their hearts is that the two children have to grow up without their parents. Tarryn said some members of their family did indeed attend Rooskrans’ funeral.
More than anything they miss the children, and wish to be part of their lives. “I will support the baby’s needs and help die Michael family with the children,” Anastasia said.
She visited her son at the Krugersdorp Correctional Services facility but, she said, all he wanted to know was where the children were.
Also Read: #NewYear’sEveMurder: Rooskrans’ alleged killer in court again
Tarryn attended all her brother’s court appearances. “He is different, almost as if he does not fully understand what happened,” said Anastasia. While attending the court proceedings, the Herald saw the suspect frowning all the time, hardly making eye contact with anyone.
Tarryn said he was indeed admitted to ICU after the community had assaulted him. “His head is still bleeding, and his teeth are badly damaged.”
Anastasia said that they are hurting, can’t sleep and mourn Danél’s death. The family hardly goes anywhere; they are scared after tyres were burnt in front of their house. Tarryn also said that when she goes to court, Rooskrans’ family swears at her.
Lastly, she said, “Only one Person will know what happened in that room where Danél died”.
*Not their real names.
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