CAPE TOWN – The Durbanville community is mourning the death of fourteen-year-old teenager Zac Barends, who took his own life on Wednesday 11 March.
Stellenberg High School announced the news during assembly that morning, confirming that a former grade 9 learner had died.
Barends is the son of television personality Isabel Barends, who presents the Via television show My plek of joune.
His parents found him unresponsive in his bedroom that Wednesday morning after his school alarm went off and continued ringing.
According to his mother, he had not suffered from depression.
Schools express condolences
Stellenberg High School posted a tribute on Instagram on Thursday 12 March, stating: “It is with great sadness that Stellenberg High School said goodbye to Zac Barends today. Words feel scarce, and our tears are many.”
Gene Louw Primary School, which Barends also attended, posted their condolences on Facebook the same day: “May God be with you during this difficult time. Our sincere sympathy to the Barends family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
A memorial service for Barends will be held at Logos Christian Church in Bellville on Wednesday 18 March.
Novanews could not reach the Barends family for comment before publication.
If you or someone you know is suffering from depression or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 082 787 6542.
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