Three Heidelberg brothers die after allegedly consuming energy drink given by their father

Three brothers, ages six to sixteen, died while attending Ratanda Primary and Khanya Lesedi Secondary Schools in Ratanda, Heidelberg, Gauteng.

This is said to have occurred after they consumed energy drinks provided by their father.

According to the Gauteng Education Department, the father prepared for school by giving all five of his children energy drinks. The fourth sibling is very ill, while the fifth did not take the beverage.

I am saddened to learn about a father, who this morning allegedly poisoned his 4 children. 2 children died in our school premises while the 3rd died on his way to hospital. The 4th child is in a critical condition at the local hospital. My sincerest condolences @EducationGP1

— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) May 26, 2022

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi will on Friday visit both schools and the family. Lesufi has also expressed his deep sadness at the incident.

Department Spokesperson, Steve Mabona, says: “It is alleged that the father of the three deceased gave all his five children energy drinks in the morning while they were preparing for school. Four of the said learners consumed the energy drink after arriving at school on Thursday, 26 May 2022. Sadly, two of the said learners died shortly at the school after complaining of stomach pains while one was rushed to the nearest hospital but died on the way. The fourth sibling is in a critical condition at the hospital while the fifth, fortunately, did not consume the energy drink.”