The sudden deaths of two pupils from Johannesburg’s prestigious St Stithians College have left the school community reeling, as police launch an inquest surrounding the tragedy.<\/p>\n
Former pupil Ethan Coetzee, 19, and Grade 11 pupil Cameron Waldeck-Cooks, 17, were found dead<\/a>, apparently in the same room at a lodge in Sabie, Mpumalanga, on August 3.<\/p>\n “Police have opened an inquest docket for investigation after a male and female were found deceased at a lodge in Sabie. A postmortem will conducted to establish the cause of death,” said police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo.<\/p>\n The heartbreaking discovery has sent shockwaves through the close-knit school community, with classmates, teachers and loved ones grappling with the devastating loss of two young lives.<\/p>\n Paying tribute to Ethan, St Stithians College described him as a pupil who had \u201cestablished very strong friendships and connections\u201d throughout his years at the school.<\/p>\n The college said his journey at Saints, which spanned from Grade R to Grade 12, reflected a young person of character and dedication.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough his time at Saints, Ethan was described as a young man of strength, commitment, and humility,\u201d the school said.<\/p>\n The institution added that he embraced every opportunity, whether in academics, sport or service to others, \u201cwith great enthusiasm\u201d.<\/p>\n The college highlighted Ethan\u2019s achievements, including being awarded rugby colours as a member of the 1st XV, becoming a national champion in eventing, and serving as a senior pupil in Penryn House.<\/p>\n It said he was a respected figure among younger pupils<\/a> and his sporting teams, earning \u201cthe respect of teammates, coaches, and peers alike\u201d.<\/p>\n \u201cEthan possessed a natural warmth and charisma that drew people to him, forging strong friendships,\u201d the college 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\u201d.<\/p>\n