Tributes pour in for popular athlete killed while cycling to work
“Our heartfelt condolences to the family of Paulus Mofokeng on his tragic and shocking passing. We, as the Nedbank Running Club Vanderbijlpark, will always remember his loyalty towards the club," said Nedbank Athletics Club acting chairperson, Johan Strydom.
VANDERBIJLPARK– The local community is in mourning following the tragic death of Paulus Mofokeng, a beloved athlete and staff member at Laerskool Kollegepark. Mofokeng (60) died in the early hours of February 20 after being struck by a car on Barrage Road.
The incident occurred at approximately 05:00 while he was cycling to work. His damaged bicycle was found a short distance away from where the collision occurred.
Police cordoned off the area for several hours. Emergency services attended the scene, but sadly, Paulus was pronounced dead at the location due to head injuries.
Speaking to Ster, Vanderbijlpark Police spokesperson Sergeant Sabelo Sigcu confirmed a case of culpable homicide is under investigation.
Police report Paulus was attempting to cross the busy road when he was hit by a Mazda sedan.
According to the driver’s statement, the traffic lights were green when the collision happened. Tributes have since poured in for the deceased Mofokeng, who was described as a humble and friendly man.
Laerskool Kollegepark stated on their Facebook, “It is with great sadness that Kollegepark bids farewell to one of our esteemed general assistants, Paulus Mofokeng. With his friendly smile, humble nature, and willingness to always assist, he made a lasting impression on staff and students. He was more than just a colleague – he was a pillar of strength, a familiar face on the field, and someone we could always count on. His presence will be deeply missed in our hallways and on our school grounds. We lift his family and loved ones in our prayers during this difficult time. May they find comfort and strength in the memories they share with him,” read the post.
The Nedbank Athletics Club, where Mofokeng was a loyal member, also expressed their heartbreak.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the family of Paulus Mofokeng on his tragic and shocking passing. We, as the Nedbank Running Club Vanderbijlpark, will always remember his loyalty towards the club. We will miss his smile, humbleness, and friendliness towards everyone. We will miss him as an athlete, but most of all, we will miss him as a friend and part of our family,” said the acting chairperson of the club, Johan Strydom.
