KEY POINTS
- A Free State man was killed after a physical fight with his brother, allegedly triggered by an argument over an injured dog.
- The suspect, 29, was arrested for murder after the victim died from stab wounds sustained during the altercation.
- Police confirmed the brothers lived on the same farm, and the accused is set to appear in court on Tuesday as investigations continue.
A 29-year-old man from a farm near Warden in the Free State has been arrested for allegedly murdering his brother following a violent altercation sparked by an injured dog.
According to police spokesperson W/O Mmako Mophiring, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning, leaving one brother dead and the other in custody.
“The assault resulted from an argument that the deceased had injured the suspect’s dog,” Mophiring said, though the breed of the dog was not disclosed.
Sowetanlive reports that the dispute turned physical, with the deceased allegedly stabbing his brother with a sharp object, causing severe wounds to his head and left arm.
In retaliation, the surviving brother reportedly struck the victim with a stick, inflicting further injuries.
Hospital struggle ends in death as police launch investigation
Harrismith police were alerted to the incident at 3:45 AM after both men were admitted to a local hospital.
“The victim was conscious when he arrived at the hospital and was able to talk. However, he succumbed to his injuries while being treated,” Mophiring confirmed. The surviving sibling sustained a hand injury but is in stable condition.
Neighbours described the brothers as generally peaceful but noted tensions had risen recently over livestock disputes. “They argued often, but no one expected it to turn this deadly,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous.
Police are investigating whether previous conflicts contributed to the fatal encounter.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Warden Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, facing a murder charge.
