A Bonteheuwel man accused of bashing his girlfriend to death with a vibracrete slab made his first appearance at the Bishop Lavis Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
The heartbroken family of Jill-Paula Fernandez, 49, are calling for justice for the child minder who worked at an adoption agency.
In a tragic twist, she died on Saturday night on the same spot where her 25-year-old son was killed in a shooting three years ago.
Brother, Kurt Fernandez, 45, says Jill had known Patrick Hendricks, 49, for many years and after an argument, he allegedly took a vibracrete slab and beat her.
“They were not married, but he was her boyfriend and they knew each other since primary school,” he explains.
He says she was hit with a vibracrete slab in Candlewood Street during an argument at 10.20pm.
“She was rushed to Vangate Hospital, but was declared dead on arrival.”
Police spokesman, Captain FC van Wyk, confirms the case and says at 10.40pm, Bishop Lavis police were called to the hospital.
SUSPECT: Patrick Hendricks, 49, knew Jill since primary school
“The 49-year-old woman was brought to the hospital by relatives with private transport after she was allegedly assaulted. She was declared deceased on arrival.”
Kurt says after the attack, Hendricks disappeared but went to Bishop Lavis Police Station on Sunday morning to hand himself over.
“He came to the station with his sister, but when he saw my bakkie, he left and went to Pinelands Police Station,” adds Kurt.
Hendricks appeared on murder charges yesterday and his case was postponed to 30 January while he remains in custody.
Bonteheuwel residents met at Jill’s family home in Dissel Road last night where they hosted a memorial service for her.
“Jill was the apple of our eye and always there for the family.
“Everyone will take it their own way, but we are struggling with this. We just want justice for Jill,” says Kurt.
Ward councillor Angus McKenzie says the incident has rocked the community, but residents are happy that Hendricks will be behind bars.
“It is extremely traumatising, however, the community has shown great resilience and support for the family,” he says.
“Counselling services have been provided and we all attended the memorial to honour her life in support of the family. We will continue to show our support and heal from this together.”