The Theewaterskloof Municipality is in mourning following the death of one of its employees, Donovan Petersen, who was killed in a freak accident while on duty on Wednesday (16 July).

Petersen, a refuse collection worker attached to the municipality’s waste management team, was involved in an incident which is still under investigation. Details of the accident remain limited, and the municipality has not yet released further information about the cause.

According to reports the municipality’s director of community services, Wilfred Solomons-Johannes, received a call about the accident while travelling and immediately turned back to the scene. Upon arrival, he rendered emergency assistance, stabilising Petersen before handing him over to paramedics.

“With hope in my heart, I continued with my official duties, only to receive the heartbreaking news shortly thereafter that he had passed away,” Solomons-Johannes said.

He described Petersen as a humble, respectful and dedicated staff member who carried out his duties with professionalism and kindness.

“Donovan was always courteous, willing to assist, and a valued member of the Theewaterskloof Municipality family. His untimely passing is a tremendous loss to all of us who had the privilege of working with him,” Solomons-Johannes added.

Executive Mayor Lincoln de Bruyn also paid tribute to Petersen, extending condolences on behalf of Council and the broader Theewaterskloof community.

“Today, we join Donovan Petersen’s family, friends and colleagues in mourning the loss of a valued municipal employee and member of our operational team. On behalf of the Council and the greater Theewaterskloof, I extend our heartfelt condolences and assure all who loved and knew him that they remain in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” Mayor de Bruyn said.” His passing is deeply felt across our organisation. We stand in solidarity with his loved ones and our employees as we mourn this loss together. May his soul rest in peace.”

The circumstances surrounding the accident remain under investigation.