Story audio is generated using AI

Police spokesperson Col Mavela Masondo says inquest dockets have been opened after a St Stithians College alumnus and a pupil from the same school were found dead in an Mpumalanga game lodge.

“Police have opened an inquest docket for investigation after a male and female were found deceased at a lodge in Sabie. A postmortem will be conducted,” said Masondo.

In a statement shared on Facebook on Monday morning, St Stithians College announced the deaths of grade 11 pupil Cameron Waldeck-Cooks and 2025 boys’ college alumnus Ethan Coetzee.

The school described Cameron as a beloved and valued member of the school community.

“Cameron began her journey at St Stithians College in grade R in 2015 and has been a loved and valued member of the Saints family throughout her 12 years at Saints. During her time at the girls’ college, Cameron participated in various aspects of school life and had a substantial impact on the school and those around her,” it said.

She approached life with resilience, quiet strength and a genuine care for those around her

The school described Cameron as an accomplished sportswoman who excelled in rowing and netball.

“A dedicated and passionate rower, she earned the respect of her peers and coaches through her commitment, perseverance and love for the sport. She was a natural leader and a mentor to many younger girls in the rowing programme, often taking on the role of a supportive ‘big sister’ who encouraged and inspired those around her,” the school said.

The school said Cameron would be remembered for her kindness, warmth and determination.

“She approached life with resilience, quiet strength and a genuine care for those around her. Today, our community mourns the loss of a cherished student, daughter, sister and dear friend who was loved by all and will be remembered with great affection,” the statement read.

“We send our deep condolences to the Waldeck-Cooks family. We hold them closely in our thoughts and prayers and stand alongside them and one another as we mourn the loss of a cherished young woman whose life touched so many,” they said.

The school also announced the death of Ethan Coetzee, who was a member of the class of 2025 and who completed his entire schooling at St Stithians.

“Ethan completed the full grade R to grade 12 journey at Saints from 2013 to 2025 and over that time established very strong friendships and connections. Through his time at Saints, Ethan was described as a young man of strength, commitment and humility. Whether in the classroom, on the rugby field, in equestrian sport or in service to others, he approached his passions with great enthusiasm,” the school said.

He had the ability to instil confidence in others, offering encouragement when it was needed most and making those around him feel seen, valued and supported

According to the school, Ethan distinguished himself both academically and in sport.

“Awarded rugby colours as a member of the 1st XV, a national champion in eventing, and a respected senior student in Penryn House, he proved to be a keen supporter of junior members of the house and respective sporting teams, earning him the respect of teammates, coaches and peers alike,” the school said.

It said Ethan possessed a natural warmth and charisma that drew people to him, forging strong friendships.

“He had the ability to instil confidence in others, offering encouragement when it was needed most and making those around him feel seen, valued and supported. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, class of 2025 and all who mourn the loss of this joyful, determined young man. We hold them closely in our prayers and stand alongside them and one another as we mourn the loss of Ethan,” the school said.

Schools around the country have sent messages of support and condolences.

Durban Girls’ College said: “On behalf of the Durban Girls’ College community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Cameron’s family, friends, and the entire St Stithians community during this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Waldeck-Cooks family and we hold you all close in our hearts as you mourn this profound loss. May Cameron’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.”

St John’s College said: “We hold the Waldeck-Cooks family and the greater St Stithians community close in our thoughts and prayers. May Cameron’s memory be a blessing and a source of comfort to all who loved her.”

Redhill School said: “Sending so much love from our hearts to yours. There are no words that can possibly do justice at a time like this, just that we are so grateful that she was part of such an amazing family and phenomenal school family. We are holding you all close in thought and prayer during this time.”

Michael Mount Waldorf School said: “Our sincerest condolences to Cameron’s family and friends and the St Stithians College community. Our thoughts are with you.”

Masondo said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deaths are continuing.