Suicide victim leaves six children behind
Since the incident the News has discovered the identity of the man.
Many Krugersdorpers were shocked on their way to work yesterday morning after seeing the body of a man hanging from a tree in Coronation Park, next to Paardekraal Drive.
The News has received numerous messages and emails describing the experience as nothing less than horrific.
One woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, said she was on her way to do her Christmas shopping at a nearby shopping centre when she saw the man’s body.
“He had short trousers on and a white shirt,” the woman said. “My dad died in the same way a few years ago and this sight triggered a lot of memories.”
A passing motorist said he was entirely thrown by the sight.
“I cannot unsee what I saw this morning,” he said. “It shocks you so much that you too feel the family’s pain within yourself.”
The News has, since yesterday, learned the identity of the man, but has decided not to release the information, out of respect for his family. A family friend said the man leaves six children behind; three of his own and three step-children, whom he raised with his ex-wife. The friend informed the News that she did not expect this to happen.
“Yes, he was diagnosed with depression, but for a while it went very well,” she said. “He had to deal with a lot over the past few weeks, but he seemed happy.”
The step-children allegedly lived with him for a long time before his death, while their mother (his ex-wife) lived in Durban. She allegedly returned to Krugersdorp a few weeks ago and her children went back to live with her.
“I would have never expected that he would do such a thing,” the friend said.
The man’s youngest biological child is six years old.
Messages of condolence to the family have also surfaced on social media since the incident.
“I feel sad for the family, especially since it’s two weeks before Christmas,” one woman said. “My sincere condolences to his family. I hope that God will give them all peace over this time of the year.”
Read more:
Father allegedly attempted suicide
Suspect commits suicide in holding cells
