Brandon Pretorius murder case: Westraad described as breadwinner

Gordon Westraad (45), one of the accused in the murder of Brandon Pretorius (27), is the breadwinner for his family and takes care of his ill wife.

This is what the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court heard on July 14, when prosecutor Mbusiseni Khalishwayo read out a sworn statement from Westraad’s wife, Monique.

Westraad and co-accused Ruan Beetge (30) face charges of murder following an incident that reportedly began at Malbroer Pub and Grill on the evening of April 25. Pretorius, the father of a one year-old daughter, died in hospital on May 6.

In her affidavit, Monique revealed she is suffering from cancer and that their 17-year-old daughter had been bullied at school because of the case. As a result, the school recommended she continue her education at home. The couple also has a son.

Monique said that while she and Westraad are estranged, they still live together.

“I would not be able to live alone because Gordon is the provider. He also takes care of me when I’m weak,” she said in her statement.
Westraad was seen crying in court once again.

Meanwhile, Beetge was informed that Legal Aid SA is still considering his application for representation after his previous legal team recently withdrew from the case. The reasons for their withdrawal were not disclosed.

The court also heard from Juan Melvin, a social media figure with a TikTok following, who submitted a statement saying that approximately 3 000 people had signed a petition opposing bail for Westraad and Beetge.

The investigating officer concluded her testimony on Thursday. She testified on behalf of the state, which is opposing the bail applications.

Officer Tshabalala informed the court that she would need an additional three months to finalise the investigation. She also testified about a phone call from Beetge’s father, who allegedly said his son did not feel safe in prison. However, he has not contacted her again or submitted a sworn statement.

The case is set to continue on July 28, when judgment on Westraad’s bail application will be delivered.

Also Read: Young father dies after assault

Also Read: Malbroer assault: It’s been a nightmare – Mother of slain son