GQEBERHA – Seven people, aged between 16 and 18, have been arrested and charged with murder following the brutal attack on 16-year-old Micah Klaasen.
The four minors are scheduled to appear in the Nerina Magistrates’ Court, whilst the three adults are expected to appear in the Gqeberha Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 8 October.
Details of the attack
According to police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg officers responded to a complaint in Mimosa Road, Fairview, at approximately 23:00 on Saturday, 4 October.
“On arrival, members were informed that the deceased was allegedly attacked by a group of six to 10 unknown suspects in Mimosa Road, Fairview,” Captain Janse Van Rensburg said. “The deceased has been identified as Micah Klaasen, aged 16 and he passed away at the scene.”
The motive for the attack remains unknown and the circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation.
Community mourns young life lost
Tributes have since poured in from the teenager’s school, Lawson Brown High and local football clubs.
“On behalf of the Lawson Brown family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Micah Klaasen,” the school posted on social media. “A bright light gone too soon — always smiling, kind, and full of life. We will miss his voice in the corridors and his passion on the sports fields, especially on the football pitch.”
Glenville Celtic AFC expressed their profound sadness at losing one of their players, writing: “It is with utterly profound sadness today that we announce the passing of one of our players, Micah Klaasen, who tragically lost his life last night. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family.”
A close friend of the teenager shared the difficulty of comprehending the tragic loss: “Friday you came out of school straight to our house, excited because you had passed. I can’t stop thinking about you, and not being able to see you again hits hard.”
