Karma took an unexpected turn this week as a suspect was declared dead after mysteriously collapsing moments before he had to appear in court for the attempted murder of his estranged wife.
Paarl police spokesperson Capt Louise du Plessis told Paarl Post an inquest has been opened into the death of the 48-year-old suspect, Francsie Arendse, who was to appear in the Paarl Magistrates’ Court on Monday 23 January.
“It is alleged that the suspect had stabbed his wife several times on Saturday (21 January) and was taken into custody to appear in court on Monday,” said Du Plessis.
The wife survived the incident and is currently being treated in hospital.
In the hours leading up to his sudden death, the suspect allegedly started feeling ill and was taken to hospital on the morning of his court appearance.
After a visit to the hospital, Arendse was released and taken back to court for the proceedings.
“While waiting in custody the deceased collapsed and was declared dead by ambulance personnel.”
Although Arendse was charged for attempted murder by the police, Du Plessis added, he had not made an official court appearance.
The cause of death is still unknown.
