Cape Town – A motorist's wife was killed in the early hours today after a concrete block (initially thought to be a huge stone) was thrown at his white BMW on the N1, near Simonsvlei, while travelling to Paarl.
"It is apparent that the victim and her husband were travelling from Cape Town back to Paarl when an unknown person, who appeared out of nowhere, threw the brick at the vehicle the couple was travelling with.
"Both victims were treated on the scene and the 58-year-old female was declared dead due to the injuries she sustained," Western Cape police spokesperson Siyabulela Malo said.
Netwerk24 reported that the victim was Paarl science teacher Michelle Pietersen, who had been travelling back from Cape Town with her husband after going shopping and enjoying dinner.
Anton Pietersen said the concrete block hit his wife of 38 years in the face about 10km outside Paarl at 1.47am. He didn't stop and raced to the Paarl Mediclinic, while propping up her head with one arm, but she unfortunately died soon after he got to the clinic.
"There was a huge explosion. There was a huge hole in the windscreen and the wind blew in. I shouted her name and prayed.
"I said 'please God', don't do this to me. We have grandchildren who love her very much. I don't know what I would tell them'," Anton, who said shreds of glass had splattered in his mouth, told Die Burger.
The New Orleans Secondary School, where Pietersen worked, posted a message on Facebook: "This is such a sad day for us as a New Orleans family to inform you of the passing of a beloved friend, colleague and beloved teacher, Mrs Michele Pietersen.
"She and her husband were on their way home from Cape Town when the accident occurred. It is such a tragic and unnecessary violent act.
"Our prayers are with her husband Mr Anton Pietersen, her children and grandchildren as well as the extended family."
Denzil Wessels posted: "What a sad day, my niece is in her class. She was straight to the point and her presence captured a room, which is rare and yet so refreshing.
"What a loss. Rest in eternal peace Juffie! Condolences to the family, our school and her colleagues."
Hambly Randall Matthews posted: "RIP dear Michelle. Was so fortunate to have a quick chat with you last week in Pick n Pay Paarl Mall."
Paarl Crime, Incidents And Traffic INFO posted on its page: "Why should innocent people be beaten with a brick. Why should someone die because of an extremely irresponsible and unthinking criminal.
"You have now committed a murder and… you leave a family with great sadness."
Malo said: "A case of murder has been opened for investigation and the arrests are yet to be made."
Police urge anyone with information that can assist with the investigation to kindly contact Paarl police or alternatively Crime Stop on 08600 10111.