Johannesburg - The 16-year-old boy found hanging at St Stithians College in Bryanston on Saturday morning was not a pupil at the exclusive northern suburb school.
The teen, whose body was discovered by a walker near the dams, hanging from a tree at about 6.30am, was a Grade 10 pupil from a neighbouring school.
On Monday night Dr Tim Nuttal, the rector of St Stithians, confirmed to The Star that the boy had been “a student at another school in the neighbourhood”.
“The boy was identified as a resident of a house near St Stithians. The process of investigation is continuing and further details will be released, as necessary and appropriate,” he said.
He pleaded with the community “to deal with this matter sensitively and with respect for the family of the deceased who are dealing with the unexpected trauma and shock of his death in this manner”.
Counselling and support were being provided to the people directly involved, he said.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss of a young life, and our thoughts and prayers are with the boy’s family and friends. I express my appreciation to St Stithians staff who have been involved in responding to this tragedy,” said Nuttal.
A moment of prayerful silence was held by staff and students at the school’s chapel service on Monday.
Police spokeswoman Captain Lydia Dikolomela said police were investigating an inquest case, adding that suicide was suspected.
The Star understands that 24/7 Security cordoned off the scene after responding to the incident shortly after being called by members of the community.
The Star