The Bo-Kaap community is reeling after the body of Bafana Bafana star Jayden Adams was discovered at a property in Military Road, Schotsche Kloof, on Saturday 11 July.

Cape Town police said the circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation.

Capt FC Van Wyk, provincial police spokesperson, said Cape Town Central police registered an inquest for investigation.

Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in as supporters, family and friends come to terms with the 25-year-old’s untimely death.

Bo-Kaap neighbourhood watch chair and vice-chair of Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers
Association, Ebrahim Christian declined comment and expressed condolences to the family.

Adams’ long-time partner, Aqueela Adendorf, took to social media, saying his death left a void in the lives of those who loved him.

“Thank you for every memory, every laugh, every hug, and every moment we shared. You were not only the love of my life but also my greatest supporter and my best friend.

“A part of my heart left with you, and I will carry your love with me forever. Until we meet again, I’ll miss you every single day,” read the post.

Close friend Edmund Pietersen said he has known Adams since his childhood. “We grew up in the same area. He was always a passionate boy.”

According to Pietersen, Adams always showed dedication.

“I remember one day he was still young and the rain was pouring but Jayden walked home from the soccer field where he was practising alone because soccer practice was cancelled for that day. That is who he was always passionate about the game.”

He explained that their last conversation was when Bafana Bafana returned home from the FIFA World Cup.

“Receiving the news of his passing was a massive shock. When I last spoke to him, he was so excited about the future and for the (soccer) season ahead.”

Adams progressed through the Stellenbosch FC academy and became the club’s first youth graduate to sign a professional contract in August 2020.

He went on to make more than 130 appearances for the Cape Winelands outfit, helping them lift the Carling Knockout title in 2023 before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in January last year.

Since moving to Sundowns, the midfielder has added a Premiership title and a CAF Champions League trophy to his growing list of honours.

Affectionately known as “Grootman”, Adams featured in all three of South Africa’s group matches in the ongoing FIFA World Cup.

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