Central SA
No foul play suspected in death of Hoërskool Driehoek learner─── ZENANDE MPAME 16:30 Mon, 02 Feb 2026
Sasolburg detectives are investigating an inquest following the death of a teenager whose body was found in the Vaal River after a boating accident.
Thomas Sithole, 17, was allegedly last seen during a cruise with a group of friends. His friends claim they only noticed he was missing after the cruise had ended.
His body was recovered after a two-day search.
The Hoërskool Driehoek learner was laid to rest on Saturday, 24 January, at the Roda Yende Community Hall in Sharpeville. A memorial service was held for him on Thursday (29/1) at Kompas Gemeente in Vanderbijlpark.
The body of Thomas was found on Monday, 12 January, two days after he was reported missing by two boys on jet skis near the bridge at Stonehaven on Vaal. The incident reportedly occurred around 18:00, but his parents were only notified four hours later.
“The post-mortem examination has been conducted,” said Free State police spokesperson Josephine Rani. “The autopsy report forms part of the inquest investigation and, upon completion of the investigation, will be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for a decision.
No new developments
“At this stage, there are no new developments. No foul play is suspected, and the investigation is ongoing.”
When Thomas fell into the water, search and rescue teams were dispatched to try to find him. Friends and relatives gathered along the riverbanks at Abrahamsrust Resort, where police divers conducted search operations.
When the group decided to rearrange seating, they realised Thomas was no longer on the boat. The group allegedly turned back and searched near the resort, but could not find him.
At the funeral, mourners described Thomas as a perfect, lovable child whose life was cut short under mysterious circumstances. Thomas was described as a child who was full of love by people who spoke about him.
“Thomas was a friend to everyone, one of the few people without enemies,” said Hoërskool Driehoek principal Stephan Schoeman. “He was loved by his friends for his positive and joyous personality, always trying to make those around him smile.
“He will always be remembered as a passionate ‘Hoekie’ and will be deeply missed by learners and teachers throughout the school.”
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