Brandon Pretorius murder case: Co-accused reportedly takes own life in prison
A man who was facing murder charges alongside co-accused Ruan Beetge in the death of Brandon Pretorius was reportedly found dead in his cell.
Gordon Westraad, a co-accused in the Brandon Pretorius murder case, has reportedly taken his own life in his cell at Boksburg Correctional Services.
Boksburg Advertiser reports that, according to Boksburg North SAPS station commander Colonel Mack Mngomezulu, the 45-year-old was found on his bed in his cell during the day yesterday.
Mngomezulu stated that it appears Westraad overdosed.
Westraad’s attorney, Frik van Rensburg, said he received two phone calls regarding the incident.
“I haven’t spoken with his family yet. I’m giving them their space. It’s a difficult time for them,” he said.
Boksburg Advertiser is still awaiting comment from Boksburg Correctional Services.
Background
Westraad and Ruan Beetge (30) were accused of murdering Brandon Pretorius, following an incident that allegedly began at Malbroer Pub and Grill on the evening of April 25.
Pretorius, the father of a one-year-old daughter, died in hospital several days after the alleged attack.
Boksburg Advertiser previously reported that Westraad’s bail application was denied on August 12. Magistrate SD Prawlall stated that Westraad had failed to prove exceptional circumstances that would justify his release on bail.
The matter was scheduled to continue on November 11.
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Read original story on www.citizen.co.za
