A 21-year-old law student from Chatsworth, Khitana Mayess Deonarain, tragically lost her life in a devastating crash near the Moorton off-ramp on the Higginson Highway in the early hours of Monday, 18 August.
Deonarain, who had celebrated her 21st birthday only weeks earlier, was returning home after spending the evening with her boyfriend, Cameron Naidoo, and his family in Northdene when the tragedy struck.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said: “Police in Chatsworth are investigating a case of culpable homicide following a collision on the Higginson Highway involving two vehicles. A 21-year-old woman sustained serious injuries and was declared dead at the scene.”
The impact claimed Deonarain’s life instantly and left Naidoo with severe injuries.
News of Deonarain’s passing sent shockwaves across social media, with hundreds of users, including her former teachers and friends, extending condolences and offering words of comfort to the grieving family. She was described as a ‘kind, gentle, warm-hearted soul’.
Jairisha Gounden wrote on TikTok: “RIP my beautiful niece, Khitana (Warrior Princess). You were the most humble and respectful young lady. You captured the hearts of many. We love you forever and always.”
Raksha Naidoo added on Facebook: “Over and over we keep saying speed kills. That road is not safe. Explain to youngsters driving there to be careful.”
Adonis Bedessy posted on TikTok: “Nothing could have prepared me for losing you that night. I will spend the rest of my life missing you.”
Deonarain was laid to rest on Wednesday, 20 August at Christ Outreach Ministries in Shallcross and cremated at the Clare Estate Crematorium.
Both the Deonarain and Naidoo families were contacted for comment but declined to speak at the time of print, citing the need for time to grieve their loss.
