Death of Ballito paramedic sends shockwaves through community

The North Coast and international rescue community mourns the tragic passing of the director of Medi Response KZN Paul Herbst (40), who was found dead at his home on Tuesday morning.

Herbst, who started out as a reservist with Umhlali Saps before venturing into the medical field, was a familiar face in the community, many of whose lives he had saved.

The news of his passing saw hundreds of tribute messages pour in, with people expressing their shock at the loss of the man many described as a local hero.

In a statement, Medi Response KZN said they were deeply saddened while also extending condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

“Paul was a well-respected and dedicated leader in the field of emergency medical services. His passion for helping others was evident in the work he did every day, and he was known for his unwavering commitment to providing care to those in need.”

KwaDukuza lifeguard superintendent Bongani Xulu said the news came as a shock, as they still had plans to meet on Tuesday.

“He was a big brother to me, and I am shattered beyond words,” Xulu said.

Xulu, who grew up in Salt Rock, knew Herbst from a young age and the duo formed a friendship spanning more than 20 years.

“I wish comfort for his family during this terrible time,” said Xulu.

A friend and former medical field colleague, Marc Lagane said Herbst was wholly committed to his purpose, that of helping others in need.

“This was evident in his actions. His ability to keep going was unparalleled and he pulled out all the stops, all the time, to ensure the best outcome for those in need,” Lagane said.

Lagane and Herbst worked together at the Ballito fire department around 1999 before venturing into the medical field.

Herbst was also fondly remembered by founder of the Tongaat-based Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Nazir Sadack, who had known him for close to eight years.

“He truly was passionate about search and rescue and always willing to help out wherever needed, at whatever time of day,” Sadack said.

CERT, founded in 2015, serves as a community-driven search and rescue and first response initiative, made up of mostly volunteers. Herbst was instrumental in helping

CERT members become equipped with the necessary medical skills and training needed when responding to emergencies.

“His death is a huge loss to the international rescue community as well. He has been instrumental in rescues both locally and abroad,” Sadack said.

Herbst returned from earthquake struck Turkey at the weekend after he and other members of the Medi Response KZN team assisted with search and rescue operations there.

https://www.citizen.co.za/north-coast-courier/203897/ballito-rescuers-continue-search-for-turkey-earthquake-survivors/

He and his team, with the aid of Saps search and rescue, helped rescue two trapped people at different locations in Turkey, including an 80-year-old woman who had been freed from rubble eight days after the earthquake.

Herbst was also involved in rescue operations in Mozambique during the 2020 floods.

A friend and Umhlali K9 policeman, Clinton Odayar, said he was absolutely saddened by the loss.

“He was a person who gave his best to save lives. Paul introduced me to search and rescue and I worked closely with him, witnessing the passion and skill he had.”

Odayar said Herbst also had a passion for dog handling, a skill that was developed with his help when he was a reservist at the Umhlali Saps K9 Unit.

“My heart goes out to the family he has left behind. May they have the strength to deal with this tragic loss as we, the North Coast, stand beside them in mourning the loss of a hero.”

Herbst is survived by his wife Linda and their son.

Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news

Telegram Broadcast Service: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0

WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Add The Courier to WhatsApp at 082 792 9405 and WhatsApp your name and surname to be added.