Boksburg man’s murder: Victim was burnt alive – police

The police have confirmed that murder victim Christo van der Merwe (57), from Impala Park in Boksburg, was still alive when his house was set on fire.

Van der Merwe’s burnt body was found in his house on Elizabeth Road at about 06:00 on January 6 after the house had been set alight.

Boksburg North SAPS station commander Colonel Mack Mngomezulu explains the autopsy revealed that Van der Merwe burnt to death.

“He was still alive during the fire,” adds Mngomezulu.

No arrests have been made but police previously said they are pursuing a positive lead. No further information can be divulged at this time.

Van der Merwe’s light blue metallic Honda Civic, registration WXZ 804 GP, is still missing.

The police ask community members who might have information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect/s who committed murder, arson, house burglary and theft to come forward.

You can call Crime Stop anonymously on 08600 10111 or send information via the MySAPS app.

Cause of fire still being investigated

The City of Ekurhuleni’s Disaster and Emergency Management Services Department (DEMS) has confirmed that the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

According to DEMS spokesperson William Ntladi, a house fire call was received at 04:38 and firefighters from the Leon Ferreira Fire Station responded.

“Rynfield and Farrarmere fire stations provided backup. A contingency of 16 firefighters were on scene battling the blaze,” said Ntladi.

With the arrival of the primary crews, the house was well alight.

“Flames were already blowing through the roof section. A quick assessment was conducted to apply the correct strategy and extinguishing agents. Water was used from the fire engine tank and for sustained supply, secondary supply was from the nearby fire hydrant.”

The spokesperson added information on the scene from bystanders indicated there was someone in the house.

“As more crews arrived on the scene, search, rescue and recovery were conducted and, ultimately, the charred body of a man was found in one of the rooms.”