CAPE TOWN – A day hiker has died following a fall near Muizenberg, marking a tragic end to what proved to be one of the busiest rescue weekends of the holiday season for Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) teams.
WSAR crews responded to three separate incidents across the Cape Peninsula on Sunday, with rescue helicopters and ground teams working throughout the day to assist hikers in distress.
According to Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) the fatal incident occurred near Bailey’s Kloof in Muizenberg, where a hiker fell several metres while scrambling above a designated trail. Despite swift action by rescue teams and advanced medical care provided by Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedics, the hiker succumbed to his injuries after being airlifted to hospital.
The hiker to be known as the young boxer, Sheldon Schultz. Schultz was a professional boxer and coach based in Cape Town, South Africa. He operated the Sheldon Schultz Boxing Academy, where he focused on personalized athlete development and holistic training.
Earlier that morning, rescue teams were called to Lion’s Head where a 52-year-old visitor from Bloemfontein had fallen while descending from the summit. The woman was successfully rescued by helicopter crew who were hoisted down to her location, treated by paramedics, and transported to hospital.
In a third incident later in the afternoon, two British tourists aged 27 and 28 found themselves stranded below the Kloof Corner hiking trail after becoming disoriented when they deviated from the India Venster route. A specialised WSAR trail runner was deployed to locate the pair and successfully guided them back to safety just before 20:00.
Holiday season safety reminder
The incidents serve as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers facing hikers during the busy holiday season, when Cape Town’s mountain trails see increased visitor numbers.
WSAR has reminded the public to save the correct emergency number: 021 937 0300.
The organisation extends its condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the hiker who lost his life, during what should have been a joyful holiday period.
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