UPDATE: Hunt for east rally champion killers still on
It has been three years since Hettema was killed on his smallholding in Boschkop east of Pretoria
The hunt for the killers of rally champion, Jan Hettema, continues three years since his death.
The 83-year-old was gunned down on his smallholding in Boschkop east of Pretoria on 29 June 2016.
Police spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said the police were yet to make an arrest.
“Investigations continue,” she said.
Two intruders overpowered Hettema, allegedly tied up his wife Elsa and shoved a worker in a cupboard before taking off with a cellphone, laptop and jewellery.
ALSO READ: UPDATE: Hettema murder: 2 years on, still no arrests
Hettema was declared dead on the scene and was reported to have been shot once in the face.
His daughter Helena, an established singer, said she was inspired by her father and what he stood for.
“There is not a day that goes by that I do not think of my father. I miss him.
“He loved life, seized the day and ran the race.”
Hettema worked as a mechanical design draftsman for the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and the Atomic Energy Board.
He received awards for a device that was built to assist in brain operations as well a hail gun to test the strength of roofing materials against hailstones.
ALSO READ: UPDATE: Hunt for Hettema killers stepped up
During his legendary career, Hettema competed at the Monte Carlo Rally in Monaco, won more than 100 rallies, became the only five-time SA rally champion and received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the sport.
He is survived by his wife Elsa, son Sean and daughter Helena.
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