Tragic Fishing Trip Ends in Fatal Attack at Tubatse Dam: Suspects Sought

In a heart-wrenching incident at Tubatse Dam near Steelpoort on December 29, 2024, what started as a serene family fishing trip turned tragically violent, leading to the death of 41-year-old John Peter Grobler from Lydenburg. Accompanied by his father-in-law and two sons, aged nine and thirteen, Grobler was brutally attacked by a group of six unknown assailants armed with primitive weapons and golf sticks.

The family was enjoying their evening at the dam around 18:30 when they were suddenly assaulted. The attackers used assegais—a type of spear—and golf sticks to inflict fatal injuries on Grobler as he sat in his camp chair. Despite his critical condition, the determined father managed to reach his vehicle, a white Ford Ranger, in an attempt to retrieve his firearm to protect his family. In the chaos, one shot was fired, causing the attackers to scatter in various directions.

Severely injured, Grobler attempted to drive his vehicle away from the scene. However, due to the severity of his injuries, he was unable to continue, and his father-in-law took over the driving. They drove until they reached Lanex village, where the police and emergency services were called. Unfortunately, Grobler was pronounced dead while seated inside his vehicle upon their arrival.

At the scene, authorities found one cartridge, an assegai, and a golf stick, which were seized for forensic analysis. The brutal nature of the attack and the presence of the young children, who witnessed the horror unfold, has shaken the local community.

Currently, the six suspects involved in this abhorrent crime remain at large. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is actively seeking any leads that could assist in apprehending these individuals. Detective Sergeant Montle Mahlatse from Burgerfort Detective Services is heading the investigation. The community and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact Detective Sergeant Mahlatse, use the Crime Stop hotline, or report anonymously via the MySAPS App.

This incident underscores the urgent need for increased security and policing in rural areas like Steelpoort, which are often secluded and vulnerable to crime. The community mourns the loss of John Peter Grobler and calls for justice in this heinous act.