Oudtshoorn police have opened a murder case following the death of a 16-year-old boy from Bridgton.
According to Warrant Officer Chris Spies, spokesperson for the Southern Cape SAPS, the incident occurred on Monday, 19 January.
The victim, Roydin Jaars, was admitted to hospital with a stab wound to the chest following an altercation at his home. He was declared dead the following morning, 20 January.
“The circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation,” said Spies.
“No arrests have been made at this stage.”
Roydin’s sister Jesvinthia Jaars confirmed that the stabbing occurred during a dispute at home and involved a 12-year-old family member. She said the 12-year-old was also taken to hospital after sustaining injuries to his hand from the knife during the altercation. Jesvinthia added that the suspect had been known to be rebellious, which sometimes caused tensions in the household.
The family has expressed profound sadness over Roydin’s passing, describing the incident as a tragic shock. Oudtshoorn Community Against Crime (OCAC) said the incident has once again left the community in shock. “It is particularly difficult for the family, as the suspect is a 12-year- old family member,” OCAC stated.
They asked for prayers for Roydin’s family during this difficult time. The OCAC also announced that they will hold a wreath-laying at his family home next week.
Side note: Children aged 12 years or older but under 14 are presumed not to have criminal capacity, and the state must prove that they understood the difference between right and wrong and had the ability to act accordingly at the time of the offence.
Children in this age group may be arrested or charged, but their criminal capacity must be established in a Child Justice Court. (GRANWILLE GOLIATH & MALISSA SPIES)
12-year-old fatally stabs Bridgton teen
