Two Walter Sisulu University students die in separate weekend incidents

Two students from Walter Sisulu University died in separate incidents over the weekend in the Eastern Cape, police said, and inquest dockets have been opened as investigations continue.

Microwave explosion in Haven Hills

Police said a 22-year-old female student died on Sunday, 31 May 2026, at about 1pm at Calypso Gardens in Haven Hills. Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, a police spokesperson, said the student was allegedly cooking food wrapped in aluminium foil in a microwave when it exploded and caused a fire.

Gantana said the student suffered burns and is believed to have succumbed to smoke inhalation. An inquest docket has been opened into the death.

Bleeding accident in Mthatha

Separately, police found a 19-year-old male student deceased at Chris Hani Park, Mthatha on Saturday, 30 May 2026, at about 2am. According to Gantana, it is alleged he was walking home from a local tavern when he slipped on wet ground and fell onto a bottle he was carrying.

The bottle allegedly broke and caused an open wound on his thigh, resulting in excessive bleeding. An inquest docket has been registered at Mthatha Central.

Investigations and next steps

Gantana said both matters are under investigation and that post-mortem examinations will be conducted to determine the exact causes of death. He added that no arrests have been made and that no witnesses have come forward at this stage. The South African Police Service extended its condolences to the families of the two students.

Anyone with information about either incident was urged to contact their nearest police station, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or submit an anonymous tip via the MySAPS App.

Separate Eid incident in Free State

Police are also investigating the death of a 12-year-old girl from Azaadville, west of Johannesburg, who was reportedly struck by a stray bullet during an Eid al-Adha qurbani incident at Jibalus Salaam in the Fouriesburg area of the Free State on Thursday, 28 May 2026. The incident unfolded after a bull broke free from a waiting truck; shots were fired in an attempt to stop the animal, and a stray bullet reportedly hit the girl as she sat inside her family’s vehicle.

This report is based on statements and details released by police representatives.