In a horrifying incident in Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal, a man has been arrested after stabbing seven of his family members, resulting in the deaths of five, including two children aged two and six. The tragedy unfolded on the night of Saturday, October 12, 2024, at the family’s home in the Bethany area.
According to South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the suspect and his uncle had returned from visiting neighbors when the attack occurred. The suspect found his mother sitting in the lounge and immediately grabbed a knife, stabbing her. She managed to escape the house, but the suspect then turned on his uncle, who died while attempting to flee.
The suspect’s violent spree continued as he fatally stabbed two young girls, aged two and six, as well as a disabled woman and an elderly visitor. Two other victims, including the suspect’s mother and a four-year-old girl, survived but were left with multiple stab wounds. Fortunately, the suspect’s sister was able to escape with her one-year-old baby.
Colonel Netshiunda revealed that the suspect had a history of domestic violence-related cases filed against him, all of which had been voluntarily withdrawn. Authorities launched a massive manhunt following the incident, leading to the suspect’s arrest.
The brutal attack has left the local community in shock, and further investigations are ongoing as police work to uncover the full details of this tragic event.