The Bloemfontein community has been left shocked and heartbroken after the tragic discovery of the body of 39-year-old Mapitso Ibezim, who was reported missing on 10 July 2025. Her remains were found inside a burnt-out vehicle following a car crash, sparking grief and raising many unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.
Mapitso, a resident of Phahameng in Bloemfontein, was last seen leaving her home with her Nigerian boyfriend in a black Volkswagen. According to reports, she left without any indication that something was wrong, and that was the last time her family saw her alive. Days later, their worst fears were confirmed when authorities informed them that she had been found dead.
The vehicle, which was discovered burnt out after a car crash, matched the description of the one she was last seen in. Inside the charred wreckage, police found Mapitso’s remains. Her boyfriend, who is believed to have been driving the car at the time of the crash, miraculously survived and is currently being treated in hospital. The nature and extent of his injuries have not yet been disclosed, but he is said to be under police watch as investigations continue.
The circumstances of the crash remain unclear. It is not yet known what caused the accident or why the vehicle caught fire. These unanswered questions have left the Ibezim family devastated and desperate for the truth.
“We just want answers,” said a grieving family member. “Mapitso didn’t deserve to die like this. We need to know what happened and why she was in that car.” The family has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into her death and is appealing to the authorities to ensure justice is served.
Police have opened a case and confirmed that an investigation is underway. Spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Mofokeng stated that they are working to establish whether there was any foul play involved in the incident. “We are not ruling out any possibilities at this stage. All aspects surrounding the crash and the events leading up to it are being looked into,” he said.
As the investigation continues, the community is mourning the loss of a woman described as warm, kind-hearted, and deeply loved by those who knew her. Tributes have poured in on social media, with many expressing disbelief at her sudden and tragic passing.
The incident has also sparked broader conversations about gender-based violence and the safety of women in relationships. Some community leaders have urged the police to consider all possible motives and circumstances leading to the tragedy, while others have offered support to the grieving Ibezim family.
As authorities work to piece together the events that led to the fatal crash, Mapitso’s loved ones are left with heavy hearts and a longing for justice. Her death marks another painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of uncovering the truth, no matter how difficult it may be.
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