Not clear: Why would murderers leave everything behind
A prayer circle was formed and Wendy Saunders from Mi-Way Ministries prayed for Odette, her family and friends.
JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – Five days after being shot dead at her business premises in Middle Road, Oakdene, family and friends gathered on Tuesday, June 16, to remember Odette Barkhuizen (43) at the place where she died.
Odette was shot twice and died on the scene on Thursday, June 11. Her vehicle was stolen, but found a few hours later not far from where she was murdered.
About 70 mourners gathered to pay their respects, lay flowers, light candles and release balloons in remembrance of her life.
āOdette was a great humanitarian and someone who didnāt need praise or acknowledgement for the good deeds she did,ā said lifelong friend Lindy Nieuwenhuizen.
A prayer circle was formed and Wendy Saunders from Mi-Way Ministries prayed for Odette, her family and friends.
āThere are many questions right now and no answers to this tragedy. What we can do is continue to be here for each other, stand together and support Odetteās family. We pray justice will be served,ā Wendy said.
Odetteās husband George says: “Iāve started my own investigation and Iām checking CCTV footage. At least two suspects are involved and Iām working with the local CPF, who possibly have a few leads, including CCTV footage. An Opel Corsa is seen in the footage as it drives away from the scene where my wife was found. I donāt want to do the work of police officers, but Iām scared that some of the CCTV evidence might be wiped out before a police official has been appointed to the case.ā
He also added itās not clear why the suspects would abandon the car and everything with value.
Odette leaves behind her husband, two children, her parents, siblings, as well as close family. Her memorial service was held on Thursday, June 17, at the Baptist Church, Glenvista.





