13 hours ago
Tragic loss: Chatsworth teacher fatally stabbed outside school
A tribute placed at Joseph Nyawose's classroom after his murder
Image: Supplied
The Chatsworth community is in mourning following the tragic stabbing of Joseph Nyawose, a beloved teacher at Merry Hill Primary.
Nyawose, 29, of Bayview, was stabbed three times in the chest on Monday morning and collapsed at the school's entrance. He succumbed to his injuries in hospital later that day.
One suspect, who was allegedly found packing his belongings at his home, was arrested by the police from the Khokhoba Informal Settlement in Bayview.
Nyawose, a Grade 5 form teacher, taught at the school for five years. He specialised in isiZulu, technology and creative arts. Nyawose was also a soccer referee and chaperoned the school's soccer team.
Brandon Pillay, the chairperson of the Bayview Community Policing Forum, said: 'It is alleged that Joseph and the alleged perpetrator had a previous altercation. On Monday morning, there was a confrontation and Joseph was stabbed three times in his chest. The perpetrator then ran off. Somebody alerted the teachers and he was rushed to hospital. Joseph was stabilised but he succumbed to his injuries and passed away in the afternoon.
'Members of the CPF from the area alerted police about the suspect's whereabouts. That's when the suspect found out that Joseph had died. Police went to the settlement with CPF members and security officers. They allegedly found him in his shack, packing his belongings. A gas gun was found."
He said the community was saddened by the tragic and untimely passing of Nyawose "a young teacher who was in the prime of his life".
"We extend our deepest condolences to the family and the school. Joseph was loved by everyone, and made a positive impact in the lives of the children."
Jaychand Inderlal, the school principal, said the pupils, teachers, staff and governing body members were saddened and shocked by Nyawose's death.
'He worked at the school from 2020, and taught the grade 5, 6 and 7 pupils. He was loved by staff and pupils. Joseph was kind in nature, respectful and always willing to help. He mentored the pupils, who were fond of him."
"He said he wanted to be a teacher to help youngsters to be good adults. He loved teaching, and interacted well with the other teachers. He was an inspiration to the pupils, and he would never shy away from hard work, or extra work. We will remember him for his kind ways, and his gentle nature. His death has left a void in the school."
Nyawose's funeral will be held in his hometown of Izingolweni, near Port Shepstone, on Sunday. The school will host a memorial on July 30, after schools reopen for the third term.
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