Meiying Gao-Chen finally laid to rest

A community in mourning, held ransom by crime.

More than 200 compatriots came together to bid a final farewell to Meiying Gao-Chen at Newcastle Crematorium on October 24.

Mrs Gao-Chen sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head when several suspects tore through her store in oSizweni on October 9.

Traffic officers escorted about 50 vehicles from the funeral home to crematorium; a touching show of unity for a loved one lost.

Mrs Gao-Chen’s sons, aged 16 and nine, travelled from Fujian, China to say their goodbyes.

“It’s hard for them to cope with the reality that their mother will never see them grow up. Her youngest son was numb throughout the funeral,” said spokesperson for the Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Municipal Councillor, Alex Liu.

In reaction to her passing, friends, fellow businessmen and competitors contacted the family to pay their respects and show their unwavering support.

“Mrs Gao-Chen’s husband, Fuping Chen, was deeply touched. He sent a letter of appreciation to the community, which was circulated via Chinese Chamber’s WeChat group.”

Cllr Liu said he was concerned about Mr Chen, who had not consumed anything or slept much since his wife’s passing.

“He has been deeply affected by her death. His friend told me he has lost 15 kilograms to date.”

On October 31, Mrs Gao-Chen’s sons will return to Fujian. Her eldest son has been tasked with carrying ashes back home.

According to a Hawks official, the investigation into Mrs Gao-Chen’s death will be conducted over a six-week period.

One of the suspects implicated in the case was arrested on October 16. The Madadeni Magistrate’s Court denied his bail application just three days later.

The suspect will make his second appearance in court on November 20. Cllr Liu was adamant new information pertaining to the whereabouts of the other perpetrators would come to light during the proceedings.

“Hopefully more suspects, especially the one who shot Mrs Gao-Chen in cold blood, will be apprehended.”

Regardless of the proverbial red tape and ongoing investigations, the community is in one mind; Mrs Gao-Chen’s killer must be brought to justice.