Phillip O’Neill (70) appeared before Magistrate Faith Kekana in the Secunda Magistrate’s Court on June 3 in connection with the murder of his wife, Hester O’Neill (49).

It is alleged that an argument ensued between the couple at their home in Brandspruit Street in Secunda, at about 22:35 on June 1.

According to police reports, Hester had allegedly told O’Neill she wanted to leave him.

The police report states that Hester was shot in the back of her neck.

Hester was certified dead on the scene.

A 9mm short Astra firearm licensed in O’Neill’s name and live ammunition were confiscated from the scene.

O’Neill is also due to appear in the Secunda Magistrate’s Court on June 24, on other charges not relating to this crime.

In showing their support, family and friends of Hester were present for the court proceedings.

O’Neill’s family were also at court.

Hester leaves behind her daughters Chane (24) and Rhene de la Rouviere (21), her siblings Catherine van der Merwe, Jacques Smit and Christelle Volschenk, and her parents Lettie and Chris Smit.

Hester’s sister, Catherine made her way from the Free State the moment she came to learn of her sister’s death.

Describing her sister, Catherine said: “She was an amazing person who always wanted people to be together and happy.”

Hester’s funeral will be on Friday, June 10.

Details of where it would be held were not yet available at the time of going to press.

O’Neill will on that day also again appear in court for a formal bail application.

He remains in police custody.