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Granville van der Horst was playing with friends in Worcester, South Africa when the tragic accident occurred
An eight-year-old boy has been tragically killed in South Africa after a rugby scrummaging machine fell on him.
Granville van der Horst was playing with friends on July 30 when the heavy training equipment toppled over and landed on him.
The Esselenpark Primary School student in Worcester, South Africa was affectionately known as “Peanut”. The South African Police Service have started an inquest to investigate the circumstances of van der Horst’s death.
Esselenpark Primary School described the event as a freak accident and shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, saying Granville’s passing left a “profound void” among his loved ones and the school community.
“It is with deep sadness that the Esselenpark Primary School community acknowledges the tragic passing of one of our beloved learners and friends, Granville “Peanut” van der Horst, who died in a freak accident on Thursday afternoon,” read the post.
“The unexpected loss of a young life deeply affects our entire school community.
“Granville’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, educators, and everyone who knew and loved him.”
The Western Cape Education Department also extended condolences to the van der Horst family, confirming that psychosocial support will be offered to both the family and the school.
The executive mayor of Breede Valley Municipality, Antoinette Steyn, also paid tribute on Facebook, saying: “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, classmates, and teachers of young Granville “Peanut” van der Horst, whose life was tragically cut short in a devastating accident that occurred yesterday.
“The passing of an eight-year-old child is a heartbreaking loss that has deeply affected not only his loved ones but the entire Worcester community.
“No parent or family should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child in such tragic circumstances.
“Peanut, a Grade 2 learner at Esselen Park Primary School, will be remembered as a cheerful, energetic and kind-hearted young boy whose smile brought joy to those around him.
“His vibrant spirit and innocent enthusiasm for life will remain in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“On behalf of the Municipality, I convey our sincere sympathy to his parents, family members, friends, the school community and all those mourning this immense loss.
“We keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time and trust that you will find strength, comfort and peace in the support of one another.
“We also acknowledge that the relevant authorities have opened an inquest into the incident. We respect the ongoing investigation and trust that it will establish the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident.
“May Granville “Peanut” van der Horst rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.”
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