The family of St Stithians Girls’ College learner Cameron Waldeck-Cooks (17) has paid tribute to her following her death in Mpumalanga, reports Randburg Sun.

Police have officially opened a murder investigation following the death of the Grade 11 learner.

According to a public statement released by her parents, Derrick Cooks and Claire Waldeck-Cooks, Cameron had travelled to Sabie, Mpumalanga, to join two families on a hiking trip. The trip was meant to serve as preparation for a multi-day journey to help her achieve the gold level of The President’s Award for Youth Empowerment.

Tragically, the family was notified on Monday (August 3) that Cameron’s body had been discovered.

The family has since enlisted the help of an independent forensic pathologist to uncover the circumstances surrounding her passing.

Autopsy indicates strangulation

In their statement, the parents revealed: “We appointed an independent forensic pathologist who has advised us that his preliminary findings indicate that Cameron died as a result of strangulation and suffocation.” They further confirmed that law enforcement has officially classified the case as a murder investigation.

In light of circulating rumours, the family urged the public to be cautious with information. “We are aware that conflicting and unverified accounts concerning the circumstances of Cameron’s death have been reported,” the statement read, adding, “We ask that speculation not be presented as fact while the investigation and forensic processes remain ongoing.”

Family remembers ‘determined’ learner

Cameron is remembered by her loved ones as a ‘deeply loved daughter, sister, family member, friend and student’. Paying tribute to her character, her family described her as ‘kind-hearted, warm and determined’.

They noted that she possessed a quiet strength and naturally uplifted and supported the younger girls who looked up to her.

“Her loss has left an immeasurable void in our lives.”

Community rallies behind family

The Cooks family expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of support from the wider Saints community, as well as from Cameron’s friends within the local netball and rowing communities. They noted that this kindness has sustained them during an ‘unimaginably painful time’.

A memorial service will be held later in August to honour Cameron’s life, with further details to be shared at a later stage.

As they navigate this devastating loss, the family has respectfully requested privacy from both the media and the public. They are currently not in a position to give interviews, asking the public to respect their space to grieve, particularly to protect the younger children affected by Cameron’s sudden death.

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