Paulpietersburg farmer killed in early morning crash
Jannie Scheepers was driving along the Paulpietersburg Road at about 4am when he veered off the road and crashed into a tree.
A tragic crash along the Paulpietersburg Road claimed the life of a well-known farmer this morning.
While the cause of the collision is still under investigation, witnesses from the scene said it appears that Jannie Scheepers (24) was driving along the Paulpietersburg Road at about 4am when he veered off the road and crashed into a tree.
The wreckage was lying on its roof when emergency services arrived and paramedics proclaimed Mr Scheepers deceased on arrival.
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Mr Scheepers farmed timber in Paulpietersburg with his family, owners of JA Scheepers Boerdery, and was known in the community as a friendly and adventurous person.
“I didn’t get to know him very well, but I did meet him at community events and he was always a very friendly guy. Jannie was an involved member of the community, and the residents of Paulpietersburg will miss him. I offer my sincere condolences to his family,” said KZN Provincial co-ordinator for AfriForum, Eugene van Aswegen.
Jan-Paul Olivier, Jannie’s cousin, said he still can’t believe what happened, having just spoken to Jannie last night.
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“He told me he would be driving to Vryheid this morning,” said Mr Olivier. “Jannie was the best cousin ever. He was always smiling and he had the best heart. He was always there to help anybody, always willing to give a hug, and he was always sponsoring charity golf days.”
Asked how he will remember Jannie, Mr Olivier recalls the holiday they spent together in Mozambique over New Year. “I want to remember him like he was. He was an adventurous guy who loved fishing, hunting, tubing and skiing. We shared great laughs and a good time. That is how I will remember Jannie.”
