The community of Atteridgeville has been left in shock following the death of 31-year-old Tshegofatso Ndebele, who was discovered lifeless in her boyfriend’s home under disturbing circumstances. Her body reportedly bore facial bruises, swelling, and a partially open eye, raising suspicions of foul play.
According to her aunt, Tsholofelo Chauke, Tshegofatso’s appearance was deeply distressing when the family saw her remains. “Her face was swollen and she had visible bruises. One of her eyes was open. No one deserves to die like that,” Chauke said.
The family revealed that Tshegofatso had been living with her boyfriend in Atteridgeville and that their relationship had recently turned toxic. It is alleged that her partner was abusive and controlling, reportedly preventing her from leaving the house and monitoring her every move. Family members said Tshegofatso had confided that she wanted to end the relationship but was afraid of how he would react.
Although her death certificate states that she passed away on 15 October 2025, her relatives believe she may have died earlier. On 11 October, Tshegofatso had reportedly called a friend to say she had been hurt, but she never explained the full extent of her injuries. She had been in a relationship with the suspect since March 2025.
Police confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened at the Atteridgeville Police Station to determine the cause of death. As of this week, no arrests had been made, but authorities indicated that investigations are ongoing. The 43-year-old boyfriend is expected to appear before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court in connection with the case.
Her aunt expressed frustration over the slow pace of justice, saying, “The person who killed Tshegofatso doesn’t deserve to be around people. It shows he’s an animal. We want to see justice served for our child.”
Tshegofatso’s family and friends described her as a warm, loving, and energetic woman who always brought joy wherever she went. “She was the life of the family — always smiling, always helping others,” her aunt said tearfully. “Now we are left with pain and questions.”
Community members have rallied behind the family, calling for stronger measures to protect women from gender-based violence. Several neighbours who knew Tshegofatso said they often heard loud arguments from the house but never imagined it would end in tragedy.
Her funeral service is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, at Lotus Gardens Cemetery, where family, friends, and community members are expected to gather to bid her a final farewell.
Tshegofatso Ndebele’s death has once again drawn attention to the rising number of women who lose their lives at the hands of intimate partners. Her story serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need for society to confront domestic violence and protect those trapped in abusive relationships.
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