In the small community of Bergville, former Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor Michael Buthelezi has been sentenced to four terms of life imprisonment and an additional 15 years for his part in a tragic fire that killed his fiancée and three children. The brutal incident took place on 29 October 2023, and the court’s ruling serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and crime.
The 48-year-old Buthelezi was found guilty of four counts of murder, arson, and two counts of defeating the ends of justice by the Ladysmith Regional Court. The sentencing on Friday, May 30, 2024, follows a case that has left many in the local community in disbelief and mourning.
The devastating fire broke out around 2am in a two-roomed dwelling in the Bethany area where Buthelezi lived with his fiancée, Khombosile Khoza, and their three children, aged between two and ten years old. Eyewitnesses recounted the chaotic scene as neighbours rushed to the home, with one brave witness kicking down the door, desperately attempting to save the trapped family.
Tragically, the blaze resulted in the deaths of Khoza and two of their young children, aged two and eight years old, while Buthelezi and their ten-year-old child managed to escape. The sheer horror of the incident, coupled with the loss of innocent lives, has left the community grappling with grief and anger.
During the trial, evidence presented by the prosecution painted a grim picture of Buthelezi’s actions on that fateful night, leading to his conviction. The court heard harrowing testimonies and a detailed account of how the fire started, underscoring the severity of the tragedy and the consequences of Buthelezi’s actions.
While many welcomed the justice served, the reality of this family’s loss is an indelible scar on the community. Community leaders have called for increased awareness around issues of domestic violence and the imperative of supporting affected families.