A bright young woman with deep roots in Randfontein died just days after a senseless shooting at a holiday resort on the outskirts of Centurion this past weekend.
Her male friend, who she was with, was also shot and injured in the incident.
Gauteng police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed to the Randfontein Herald that the incident occurred last Friday, September 8. They are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder.
“The police in Erasmia responded to a shooting complaint at a resort on the day in question and upon arrival, the two victims alleged that they were attacked and shot by three unknown men.
“Nothing is reported to have been taken from them and both victims were taken to hospital with gunshot wounds. Unfortunately, the woman succumbed to her injuries three days later [September 11] and police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder,” said Nevhuhulwi.
The woman has since been identified as Lizka-Mari Nell and she is 23 years old.
The Herald has since also made contact with her mother, Wanda, who confirmed Lizka was an engineer and had just recently moved out of the family home in Randfontein to the Centurion area.
Her tragic death has since made national news with her alma maters, namely Laerskool Randfontein (Ram) and Hoërskool Riebeeckrand, along with the public praising the youngster for being a bright young woman. They also shared their condolences with the Nell family on social media.
“Lizka’s death is tragic and shocks us. A bright young woman, with her whole life ahead of her, died in such a senseless manner. Her teachers remember her as a brilliantly smart girl who had an extremely positive outlook on life. She took part in so many activities and showed unwavering potential. We at Ram are very saddened and convey our condolences to her family. May God bring you comfort and healing. Our deepest sympathies,” said Ram’s spokesperson, Annie Nolan.
Hoërskool Riebeeckrand posted a heartfelt message on their Facebook page saying ‘Lizka Nell’s loved ones are in our prayers in this difficult time’.
“So young and vibrant – taken away too soon,” their post read.
Read next week’s Herald for a more in-depth article with the family about the beloved Lizka-Mari.