Man killed a week after RAF payout
2012-08-15 12:40
Mlondi Radebe, The Witness
Pietermaritzburg - A man who recently received a sizeable payout from the Road Accident Fund (RAF) was found dead in a pool of blood at his rented room in Pelham, Pietermaritzburg, on Tuesday morning.
Matthew Neethling, 38, a mechanic at a local workshop, was found by his landlord’s son-in-law, Robert Carelse, in a crouched position on his bed.
Carelse said he knocked at Neethling’s door. When there was no response, he pushed it open and made the gruesome discovery.
“I found him crouched on the bed. I checked his pulse and he had none. I then notified his family.” he said.
Carelse said he had drinks with Neethling on Monday night.
Neethling’s brother Jaco, who arrived at the scene after being informed of the incident, was grief-stricken and would not comment.
Spending spree
Landlord Richard Strydom said Neethling was kind-hearted and had never caused problems since moving in eight months ago.
“He always woke up early in the morning and loved to play music. But today was quiet and I sent my son-in-law to go and check on him.
“He came back to tell me that he was in a pool of blood,” said Strydom.
He said Neethling, who was involved in a car accident in Pretoria some time ago, received an RAF payout a week ago.
“After the payout, Neethling bought himself a Chevrolet bakkie, a flat-screen television, fridge and washing machine, all for cash.
“Although I don’t know how much he received from the RAF, with the new car and appliances he bought, you could tell it was a lot,” said Strydom’s wife, Maria.
Police at the scene collected several items from the home, including two cellphones, which they hope will provide clues.
Police spokesperson Captain Thulani Zwane said Neethling had sustained multiple injuries to his face.
“His empty wallet was found next to him."
A murder case was under investigation.
