First festive season suicide reported
Man hangs himself close to Paardekraal Drive. Residents of a block of flats nearby could see the body as soon as it became light at about 6am.
The body of a man – who is believed to be in his mid-30s – was found hanging from a tree in Coronation Park, this morning, 12 December, at approximately 6am.
It is alleged the man had committed suicide during the night. His body was discovered by park personnel this morning.
The age of the man remains unconfirmed, but the family was at the scene to identify the body.
It is alleged the man had an argument with his wife, and that he had diabetes, and these circumstances might have triggered his suicide. It is also alleged the man had been diagnosed with depression. The man’s vehicle was found close to the tree.
The alleged suicide seemed to be a public display as the man hung himself close to the borders of the park. Motorists travelling on Paardekraal Drive from the McDonalds towards President Hyper could see the body hanging from the tree. An apartment block also overlooks the spot where the body was found.
Sector 4’s Community Policing Forum cordoned off the scene and waited for police to arrive.
The man’s body was covered with what seemed to be a sheet, while his face was covered with a black cloth. The scene seemed eerie as the sheet was being blown from side to side by the wind, revealing glimpses of the body.
The Krugersdorp Police have sent a detective to investigate the scene.
The police, CPF and family members waited at the scene for the forensic pathologists and the state mortuary vehicle to arrive. When the News left the scene at 8.15am, neither had arrived yet.
Police have not yet released a statement about the incident.
Krugersdorpers have seen numerous suicides take place in December during the last two years. The festive season is notorious for its suicide spike and the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) lists hanging as one of the top methods of committing suicide.
Sadag also said there are various methods of disclosure, therapy and early warning signals you can use to help your loved ones through tough times.
The organisation’s suicide hotline also offers counselling to those who need someone to talk to. Its offices are open between 8am and 8pm, seven days a week, or you can call them on 011 234 4837 to talk to a counsellor.
Read more:
Father allegedly attempted suicide
Suspect commits suicide in holding cells
