A 25-year-vintage cricket coach, Berend Alkema, was fatally shot during a home robbery in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Details of the Incident
According to a statement released by Jannie Raath, principal of Laerskool Hennopspark, armed robbers attacked the family home of Ann Alkema, an operations head at the school, while they were asleep. Her son, Berend Alkema, who also worked as a cricket coach at the school’s academy, was fatally wounded.
Raath stated that Berend was “very fond” of the boys he coached. The school is prioritizing how to share the news with students, deciding it was best to first inform parents so they could comfort their children. Counsellors will be available at the school on Thursday to support students and staff.
Community Response
Tributes and messages of condolence were shared on social media on Wednesday. The Excellentiam Cricket Academy in Centurion posted on Facebook, describing the day as “one of the worst” for the South African cricket community. They remembered Berend as a friend, player, and coach who “touched many, many lives.”
Ann Alkema’s family, including Berend (Sr) and Yteke, a Grade R teacher at Laerskool Hennopspark, are in the school’s thoughts and prayers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Berend Alkema?
Berend Alkema, a 25-year-old cricket coach from Laerskool Hennopspark, was shot and killed during a home robbery.
Who is Ann Alkema?
Ann Alkema is the operations head at Laerskool Hennopspark and the mother of Berend Alkema.
What support is being offered to the school community?
Counsellors will be available at Laerskool Hennopspark on Thursday to support children and staff.
How will communities cope with such sudden loss and violence?
