A Merebank family is struggling to come to terms with the tragic death of their beloved family member, Junior Robertson (58), who was killed in a horrific crash at the corner of Tara Road and Badulla Drive, in Merewent, on Thursday afternoon.
Speaking to the Merebank and Chatsworth Tabloid, Robertson’s brother, Rickey Robertson, said the news of his brother’s death has left the family devastated.
“It wasn’t just that my brother was killed but the gruesome manner in which his life was snuffed out. It is heartbreaking for us as a family to come to terms with the circumstances surrounding my brother’s death,” Rickey said.
Wentworth SAPS communications officer, Captain MP Gumede, said a case of culpable homicide and damage to property is being investigated after a man was found deceased at a collision scene.
“On Thursday, 15 August, the station received a report about an accident and police from SAPS Wentworth Vispol were dispatched to the scene. On arrival, the officers noticed PT Ambulance services and other security companies already on the scene. A white Audi was parked facing the fence and there were damages on the fence and to the vehicle. A male was lying on the ground with injuries and was declared deceased by PT Ambulance Service. The victim had been knocked down by the same vehicle before it crashed into the fence, causing damages. SAPS Wentworth detectives will investigate further,” Cpt Gumede said.
PT Alarms and PT Ambulance Service spokesperson, Dhevan Govindasamy, said: “The PT Alarms Tactical Unit and PT Ambulance Service were the first responders on scene and upon arrival, found carnage. The elderly pedestrian was found lifeless on the ground after he was mowed down by the crashed vehicle. The driver of the vehicle sustained minor injuries.
It was discovered that the deceased pedestrian was a familiar resident in the community. We urge motorists to drive cautiously at all times and pedestrians need to maintain vigilance on the roadway as this is a busy stretch and accidents can occur in the blink of an eye resulting in death and injuries.”
Robertson’s funeral took place in Merebank on Sunday followed by a cremation. According to Rickey, Robertson left behind a daughter and two grandsons. “My brother was a kind and humble soul. He was known by all in the community for his gentle and friendly manner.
As we mourn the loss of my brother, we trust police will ensure that justice is served,” Rickey said.
