Johan Steenekamp, the pathologist responsible for conducting an autopsy on former Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa, delivered crucial testimony in the ongoing murder trial.
The court proceedings took place at the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria on August 29th.
Meyiwa’s Fatal Shooting Incident
Senzo Meyiwa suffered a fatal gunshot wound on October 26, 2014, at the residence of his then-girlfriend and singer Kelly Khumalo in Vosloorus.
Witnesses who appeared in court recounted their efforts to rush Meyiwa to Botshelong Hospital and provide first aid by applying pressure to the gunshot wound.
Tragically, Meyiwa was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Autopsy Details and Survival Potential
Dr. Steenekamp conducted an autopsy on Meyiwa’s body at Germiston mortuary on October 28, 2014, just two days after the soccer star’s untimely demise.
According to his testimony, Meyiwa could have potentially survived for a short period after being shot.
The pathologist indicated that Meyiwa’s survival timeframe could have ranged from seconds to minutes, but definitively not hours.
Close-Range Firearm Impact
Dr. Steenekamp elaborated further, revealing that the gunshot wound suggested a close-range impact.
The trajectory of the wound indicated that the gun had been pressed against Meyiwa’s body at close proximity.
The wound’s path followed a downward and backward direction, moving away from the body’s mid-section.
Internal Injuries and Blood Loss
During the autopsy, it was discovered that Meyiwa’s right chest cavity contained a substantial amount of free and clotted blood, measuring 1,700 milliliters.
This internal blood loss stemmed from both the heart and lung area, leading to the collapse of the left lung.
These details underscored the severity of the internal injuries Meyiwa sustained.
The Accused and Charges
The trial revolves around five individuals accused of the murder of Senzo Meyiwa: Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Maphisa, and Fisokuhle Nkani Ntuli.
The charges they face include premeditated murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravated circumstances, possession of firearms without a license, and possession of ammunition.
Despite the accusations, all five defendants have pleaded not guilty.
The trial is being presided over by Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng.
Continuation of the Trial
The trial is ongoing, with the recent testimony of pathologist Johan Steenekamp shedding light on critical aspects of the case.
As the court proceedings unfold, the details provided during the trial will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this high-profile case.
World News