A family in Meadowlands Zone 3 is struggling to cope with unimaginable grief following the tragic death of three-year-old Motheo Nyeleti Tshilo, who died in what relatives believe may be linked to criminal activity in the area.Family games
According to information shared by the family, the heartbreaking incident occurred last Saturday while young Motheo was playing with friends near his home. During their playtime, a heavy metal gate reportedly fell on the toddler, causing severe injuries.
He was immediately rushed to a nearby healthcare centre, where medical staff attempted to stabilise him. Sadly, despite efforts to save his life, Motheo later succumbed to internal injuries sustained in the accident.
While the incident initially appeared to be a tragic accident, the family has since raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the fallen gate. After conducting their own inquiry, relatives allege that the gate may have been tampered with prior to the incident. They suspect individuals attempting to steal a vehicle parked inside the yard may have interfered with the structure.
According to the family’s version of events, the suspected criminals were unsuccessful in stealing the vehicle. However, they believe the damage allegedly caused during the attempted theft could have destabilised the gate, ultimately leading to the fatal incident.
The devastating loss has left the Tshilo family reeling. What should have been an ordinary weekend filled with children’s laughter has instead turned into a period of mourning and unanswered questions.
Family member Seipati Maponyane expressed the family’s pain and frustration, saying they are still trying to come to terms with Motheo’s sudden death. She added that the family is calling for those responsible to be identified and arrested, insisting that justice must be served.Family games
“Our child was innocent,” a family representative shared. “We want accountability. We want answers.”
To compound their anguish, the family reported another distressing development. On the morning following Motheo’s funeral, they discovered that a vehicle battery had been stolen from their property. The incident has deepened their fears about ongoing criminal activity in the neighbourhood and heightened their sense of vulnerability during an already painful time.
Motheo was laid to rest on Saturday in an emotional farewell attended by grieving relatives, friends and community members. Described as a joyful and playful child, his passing has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many expressing sympathy and outrage.
Police have since opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death. Authorities have indicated that investigations are ongoing to determine whether criminal tampering played a role in the tragic incident.
As the investigation continues, the family remains hopeful that the truth will emerge and that those responsible, if any wrongdoing is confirmed, will face the full might of the law.
For now, a Meadowlands household is left mourning a young life lost far too soon, clinging to memories of a little boy whose laughter once filled their home.
