‘It Won’t Bring Malcolm Back’: Brakpan Family Mourns Teen Killed by 12-Year-Old Driver

In the quiet streets of Brakpan, Gauteng, a tragic accident has left a family and community grappling with shock and sorrow. Fourteen-year-old Malcolm Booyens was killed when a 12-year-old child, driving without permission, ignored a stop sign and collided with him. The collision sent Malcolm crashing into a nearby fence and claimed his life instantly.

Remembering Malcolm: A community’s tribute

The day after the accident, family, friends, and neighbours gathered to remember Malcolm in a heartfelt vigil. A large wooden cross adorned with messages of love and sorrow became a focal point where community members laid flowers and shared their grief. It’s clear that Malcolm was more than just a victim of a tragedy—he was a son, a grandson, a friend.

His grandfather, André Booyens, shared the family’s deep pain, admitting they are still trying to understand how such a heartbreaking event unfolded. “We are in shock,” he said, “trying to make sense of losing Malcolm so suddenly.”

A father’s anguish and the unanswered questions

Malcolm’s father, Quinton Booyens, recounted the terrifying moments leading up to the crash. They had been out together, Malcolm skating just ahead of him. Then, without warning, a white Mazda sped past a stop sign. Quinton saw the car and immediately heard the devastating impact.

“When I saw the white car flying past, I knew something was wrong. I found Malcolm’s skateboard, then him lying on the pavement,” Quinton recalled. The young teenager was declared dead on the scene by paramedics from the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department.

The boy behind the wheel, only 12 years old, has been taken into custody and later released to his parents. According to city spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, the suspect will soon face the Brakpan magistrate’s court.

Driving without permission and the call for accountability

The 12-year-old’s mother reportedly visited Quinton after the accident, insisting her son had not been allowed to drive the car. But to Quinton, such explanations provide no comfort. “No matter what she says, it won’t bring Malcolm back,” he said with a heavy heart.

This tragic incident has sparked conversations online and in the community about child drivers, road safety, and the devastating consequences when rules are ignored. Many locals expressed their sadness and frustration, calling for stricter measures to prevent such heartbreaking losses in the future.

A history of youth and road safety challenges

South Africa has long battled issues around unlicensed or underage driving, often compounded by lax enforcement and limited road safety education. In areas like Brakpan, where young people seek independence and mobility, the risks can be especially high. Malcolm’s death serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for better awareness and stronger controls.

Moving forward in grief and hope

While the Booyens family’s pain is raw and fresh, the community’s vigil showed that Malcolm’s memory will live on. As legal proceedings begin, many hope this tragedy will open the door to conversations that protect other young lives.

Malcolm’s story is one of loss, but also a call to action a plea that no other family has to endure what the Booyens are facing now. It’s a moment for South Africans to reflect on road safety, responsibility, and how to safeguard the futures of the country’s youth.

Brakpan in Mourning: Community Grieves Young Malcolm Booysen at Tearful Vigil

{Source: The Citizen}

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