A violent altercation in Hutten Heights in the early hours of Sunday morning claimed the life of 17-year-old Henrico Oosthuizen, who died after allegedly being struck on the head with either a baseball bat or a pipe.

A man has since been arrested and will this week appear in court on charges of murder and assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Newcastle SAPS explains what transpired

Lizzy Arumugam of the Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications Unit said the incident occurred on Gemsbok Street at about 2am, after a fight broke out between two men outside a local pub.

“One of the men then ran away, only to be chased by several patrons,” she said.

Arumugam further explained that, Henrico and his friend continued on foot in Gemsbok Street, where they were confronted by a man in a bakkie who alighted from the vehicle and threatened that he would ‘put (Henrico) in his place.

“His friend intervened, and the man returned to his vehicle to fetch an object which they first thought was a firearm. Fearing he would shoot them, they fled for about 30 metres when they turned around to see that he was carrying either a baseball bat or a pipe.”

The pair confronted the man who then struck Henrico on the head with the object, causing him to fall to the ground. His friend was also assaulted when he attempted to intervene, suffering injuries to his arm and shoulder blade.

Their attacker then sped off in his bakkie.

The friend took Henrico to a friend’s house, where they intended to stay the night. However, at about 3am, Henrico started suffering seizures and was rushed to hospital where he underwent emergency brain surgery.

Henrico’s family created a Back-a-Buddy account in an effort to raise the much-needed funds for his surgery and post-operative care.

Tragically, Henrico succumbed to his injuries on Monday.

His family subsequently updated the fundraising page, saying:

“It is with deep sadness that we share Henrico passed away yesterday morning from his injuries. His family is shattered, and there are still many medical bills that need to be paid for his surgery, ICU care, specialist care, and more. We kindly ask that, if you are able, you continue to contribute. Every amount helps cover the remaining costs and supports his parents during this incredibly painful time. Thank you to everyone who has donated, prayed, and shared his story.”

Click here if you would like to help contribute towards his back-a-buddy

The Newcastle Advertiser extends its sincerest condolences to the Oosthuizen family and his friends during this incredibly difficult time.

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