Farm killing: Cops suspect teen

2012-04-17 10:01

Kimberley - Griekwastad police apparently suspect a 15-year-old boy of killing three members of a local family in their farmhouse over the Easter weekend, according to a report.

Deon Steenkamp, 44, his wife Christel, 43, and their daughter Marthella, 24, were shot dead on Good Friday.

Volksblad reports that police sources believe there was only one shooter - the surviving member of the family - but Griekwastad police would not officially confirm this.

It was reported in Rapport over the weekend that rumours had started circulating in Griekwastad about the teenager, and that legal counsel had been appointed for him. Witnesses said he had been seen arguing with his father on the day of the murders, apparently because he wanted to farm instead of going to school.

The murders took place in the TV-room. Christel was shot twice, once in the back of her head, before Deon was shot three times.

Marthella appeared to have tried to run for her life. Her blood was found on door frames and walls outside the kitchen door. 

Police are investigating whether she had possibly been killed outside and dragged back into the farmhouse.

The safe that held the weapons that had killed the Steenkamps, was found open and unlocked.