Mahomed Swalleh Ameer (71) of Albersville died while on one of his usual running routes in Port Shepstone on Tuesday afternoon.

According to Craig Botha of Kwazulu Private Ambulance Service, “Emergency services found that a man had been knocked over by a vehicle.

“Paramedics quickly assessed the scene and found that he had sustained fatal injuries and had succumbed to them before emergency services arrived,” he added.

Police spokesman Captain Petros Mpinge confirmed that a culpable homicide case has been opened for investigation by Port Shepstone Detective Services.

“A pedestrian was knocked down and killed on Marine Drive in Oslo Beach at about 15:20 on Tuesday. Anyone with further details of the accident must contact Saps Port Shepstone on 039 6881005/1003” he added.

It was thereafter rumoured that Ameer had suffered a heart attack while running, however a close family member confirmed that this was not true. “He did not have a heart attack, he died due to injuries sustained from being struck by the vehicle,” said the relative.

The tragic news came as a massive shock to family, friends and community members.

Originally from Durban, Ameer moved to Port Shepstone in 1978 where he worked at Rensco Motors. In 2009 he took ownership of the Tata Garage in Port Shepstone and had been at the garage to date.

Ameer was well-known along the South Coast, especially as an integral member of the South Coast Striders.

Many will recall seeing Ameer along the road during his daily running route, and would often be greeted by his cheerful smile or a friendly wave.

Ameer completed around 20 Comrades Marathons, and participated in the Washie 100 miler seven times.

Additionally, he ran the Two Oceans Marathon 19 times and acquired his green number in the Comrades.

These are apart from the many other marathons he completed.

Ameer was very religious and never missed a daily prayer.

He completed Hajj 28 times and assisted with walking Hajj tours whilst in Saudi Arabia. Ameer also enjoyed travelling to India often, his last visit being in February 2020. As a friend, husband, father of two and grandfather of five, Ameer was described as a compassionate, family-orientated and hardworking man.

He cared for his family immensely and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He adored spending time with his grandchildren and was extremely proud of them all.

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