A Phoenix family is yet to come to terms with the loss of their son, Branden Pillay, who was killed after being hit by a motor vehicle while trying to escape robbers on the M41 in Umhlanga, in the early hours of Sunday morning, 4 December.
Pillay, 34, was returning home from a company year-end function in Umhlanga when he tragically lost his life. Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, the family spokesperson, Cliffy Naidoo, Pillay’s eldest cousin, said: “According to what we were told by witnesses, Branden was travelling home with four other people in a friend’s car when the back tyre of the car began to smoke up. Branden and another friend decided to jump off the car and walk to a nearby garage. While walking to the garage, they were approached by two unknown men who wanted a packet that Branden was carrying. When a fight ensued, two other suspects came from under the bridge to attack Branden and his friend. The friend managed to escape but Branden got held back and a fight broke out onto the freeway and that’s when Branden and one of the suspects were hit by a car. The suspect was hit against the barrier while multiple cars sadly ran over Branden.”
Naidoo said the young father-of-one was excited to be working again, and being able to provide for his family. He said Branden started work about three months ago and he was excited about it.
“He was a devoted husband and father. He video called and chatted to his wife throughout the night prior to the fatal incident. His eight-year-old son does not understand that his dad is no longer with us. Branden was a loving and selfless person who was always willing to go out of his way to help others. His wife and the entire family are devastated and cannot come to terms with his sudden passing,” said Naidoo.
“His mother is taking the death of her only child very badly. She is really heart broken as she and Branden were very close and they had promised to speak the next day. The circumstances surrounding Branden’s death is unpleasant as no one has come forward after the hit and run, and our family needs closure,” added Naidoo.
The SAPS confirmed the incident and that an investigation was underway. Colonel Robert Netshiunda said: “The Durban North police are investigating two counts of culpable homicide after two lifeless bodies were found lying on the M41 Road in Umhlanga in the early hours of Sunday, 4 December. The bodies seemed to have been run over by several vehicles and circumstances surrounding the incident is subject to police investigation. Anyone who may have information regarding the incident is urged to contact the investigating officer.”
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) Head, Prem Balram said their offices were contacted by passing motorists at approximately 1.41am requesting immediate assistance after several vehicles drove over a pedestrian. He said RUSA members were dispatched to the scene and on arrival discovered the bodies of two men, approximately 30 metres apart.
“Reaction Officers were approached by a member of the public who explained that one of the deceased was a friend. The two men had attended their company year-end function and were returning home when they were dropped off on the M41 in the vicinity of Umhlanga, after the vehicle they were travelling in experienced mechanical failure. The two men were then approached by four suspects who attempted to rob them. The victims fled in different directions while being pursued by their attackers. His friend and one of the suspects were run over in the process. Multiple vehicles thereafter drove over the victim.”
Following the tragic incident, heart-felt messages and tributes have been pouring in on social media platforms. Selena Moonsamy on a Facebook post said: “RIP Branden, may you rest well. You will be missed by all your friends and colleagues, we might have known you for a short time but you were such a humble person. Always willing to help whenever needed.”
Thameshni Govender said: “Rest well Branden Pillay, my deepest condolences to your family. May the Lord have his arms of love and compassion over you all during this time.”
Their condolence messages were echoed by Nevlin Govender who also shared a post on Pillay’s Facebook timeline that read: “Feeling heartbroken. Rest well brother, you will never be forgotten, neither will the memories you left us with, RIP brother.”
Community Policing Forum PRO Mark Nadasen said: “With Christmas fast approaching, we urge our community to be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Unforeseen circumstances such as a break down at the side of the road puts one’s safety at risk as criminals are always on the lookout for an easy target.”
He added: “On behalf of the Phoenix Community Policing Forum, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. It is rather saddening to know that the family of the deceased will be in mourning during a time when everyone else is celebrating the festive season. May God provide you with the comfort and strength needed to get through this traumatic period.”
Pillay will be laid to rest at his residence in Branch Manor on Tuesday, 6 December. The I/O Detective Sergeant Carl Harichund can be contacted on 084 653 4054.
