Husband in court in connection with wife and stepdaughter’s murder

A 61-year-old man appeared in court yesterday after allegedly shooting and killing his wife (58) and stepdaughter (31) in Hartbeespoort on Monday afternoon.

Paul Prinsloo allegedly shot his wife Magdalena Prinsloo and his stepdaughter Ruzanne Weideman with a hunting rifle after an argument at their home in Kosmos.

He was arrested at the scene shortly afterwards.

Prinsloo appeared in the Brits Magistrate’s Court yesterday on charges of murder.

He was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on December 6.

According to information received, the family had guests and were outside by the swimming pool during the shooting.

Police spokesperson Constable Ben Moabi says an argument between the man and the two women broke out around 14:00.

“The suspect fetched a hunting rifle and [allegedly] shot and killed both women. They were declared dead at the scene by emergency services.”

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena says he is appalled by the incident, which occurred at the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism For No Violence Against Women and Children.

“And it happened at the victims’ home, where they were supposed to feel safe, and the crimes were [allegedly] perpetrated by someone who was supposed to be their protector.”

He urges the public to work with the police and various stakeholders to accelerate actions to end gender-based violence and femicide.

• This article has been amended.