Tragedy struck when Eddy Franco killed in Meyersdal home invasion
In a horrifying incident that unfolded in the early hours of December 29, Eddy and Marinda became victims of a brutal home invasion in a complex in Meyersdal.
Family and friends said their final goodbye to Edgar Jasmins Franco, better known as Eddy, on January 9 after criminals beat him to death in a home invasion on December 29.
Eddy (57) was a well-known community figure because he owned a chemical manufacturing company in Alrode.
“Eddy was not just a life partner. He was the person who understood me best,” said his partner, Marinda Kruger, who survived the tragedy.
The nightmare that ended in tragedy
In a horrifying incident that unfolded in the early hours of December 29, Eddy and Marinda became victims of a brutal home invasion in a complex in Meyersdal.
Three young armed men forcefully entered their home through a lounge window.
They demanded firearms from the victims, believing the couple owned such weapons.
Despite the pair’s pleas of innocence regarding weapon ownership, the attackers demanded access to a safe.
Compliance was not enough because the men continued their violent assault, using their fists, legs and firearms to inflict multiple injuries on their defenceless victims.
Marinda was tied up with the power cable of her bedside lamp, and Eddy was subdued with a sock in his mouth. They endured a harrowing ordeal.
“The suspects kept searching for valuables while I complied with their every demand,” said Marinda.
“Eddy was very quiet and lying on the ground. I then knew something serious was wrong with him.”
Marinda then heard her car starting, signalling the assailants’ departure with stolen possessions, including Marinda’s vehicle, money, jewellery, and bank cards.
With the criminals gone, Marinda freed herself and sought help from neighbours. Shockingly, the neighbours refused involvement, directing her to security instead of offering immediate assistance.
CPS Security swiftly responded to the distress call, arriving at the scene first. Paramedics and the SAPS followed shortly after, but it was too late for Eddy, who was declared dead on-site. Paramedics treated Marinda for a head injury.
A case of murder and robbery was opened at Brackendowns. According to Sergeant Lindi Moloi, the spokesperson for Brackendowns SAPS, the suspects ransacked the house, taking items valued at R200 000.
Remembering Eddy
Eddy and Marinda had shared four-and-a-half years together, with the last two spent creating memories in the Meyersdal complex.
Marinda expressed profound loss about her partner.
His words were a source of guidance and comfort, making him invaluable in her life. Marinda reflected on Eddy’s wisdom, stating, “You would be not very wise to not take advice from him.”
She said Eddy was a family man at heart. He cherished his two children and two grandchildren, treating them with the same love and care he extended to Marinda’s sons.
“He was my hero till the end. He was a kind-hearted individual, the epitome of a perfect human being,” she said.
Eddie enjoyed working and spending quality time with his family. He liked fixing things around the house and was passionate about DIY projects.
His absence leaves a void that extends beyond the family circle, touching the lives of friends and acquaintances.
“Eddy’s legacy as a caring partner, father, and businessman will be dearly missed.
As the family mourns, they also seek justice for his death.
Marinda, along with relatives and friends, are praying for the swift apprehension of the suspects, hoping to bring closure to this tragic chapter. The family’s plea for justice doubles as a call for awareness, urging residents to remain vigilant, even within the seemingly secure confines of a complex.
Thank you
Marinda and Eddy’s family thank everyone for their support in this sad time.
