The community of Glenwood in Durban have been left reeling after a woman was found deceased in a local Bed and Breakfast last week.

The deceased woman, Jacqueline Needham, owned Beachwood B&B where she was a longstanding member of the community. Chairperson for the Umbilo Community Police Forum (CPF), Heather Roos said B&B staff discovered the body on August 11.

“I received a call from staff who said Jackie was missing, her car was gone and bedroom ransacked. I called SAPS and as I put the phone down, staff called me back, hysterical, to say they had found her body,” recounted Roos.

Roos, a close friend of Needham, said it had been a sad week for the Glenwood community.

“We as a community are shocked. Friends are left heartsore. Her employees are devastated, shocked and extremely sad as they have lost more than just a boss – they have lost a mother figure. Her family and closest friends are shocked, heartsore, and in pain with grief. Together we all mourn the senseless and tragic loss of an amazing, kind and caring person,” said Roos.

Ward 33 Councilor, Sakhile Mngadi echoed these sentiments, saying Needham was active in the community.

“She ran a soup kitchen in the area, giving meals to those in need. She was a valued member of the community. I wish her family and friends my condolences during this time,” said Mngadi.

According to Mngadi, Needham was found in the office of the B&B.

“The CPF informed me that she was found tied up with blunt force trauma to the head,” said Mngadi.

Mngadi added that cellphones, security cameras  and other valuables were stolen.  Captain Carmen Rhynes, eThekwini District Communication officer for SAPS, confirmed that a case of murder is under investigation.