Police have launched an inquest after a Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) postgraduate student tragically died after falling into a swimming pool at a student residence over the weekend.

Tshwane police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk says on Saturday, at approximately 00:05, a group of students gathered for a social event at the pool area of a TUT residence in Arcadia.

He says the group had been repeatedly warned by the residence manager and the on-duty security officer to avoid the pool area after 20:00.

“Tragically, a 30-year-old male student fell into the pool,” says Van Dyk.

He adds that despite the efforts of bystanders who managed to pull him out, he was declared dead on the scene. The exact cause of death is still unknown and forms part of an investigation.

“An inquest was registered at Sunnyside SAPS for investigation. The investigation continues.”

Phaphama Tshisikhawe, TUT’s spokesperson, says the university is mourning.

Tshisikhawe confirmed that the student passed away at the Zethushof student residence.

The university extends its deepest condolences to the student’s family, friends and fellow students, she says.

After informing the next of kin, the university continues to provide support to the family while awaiting an official report from the SAPS.

“Before a detailed public announcement is made, the family is being afforded the space and time to inform one another, to process their great loss and to prepare for the funeral,” she says.