GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - A 19-year-old student from Jeffreys Bay, Junade Faulkner, who moved to Graaff-Reinet in January to study at the East Cape Midlands College, was shot and killed just two weeks later in Santaville on Monday 8 February.

According to Graaff-Reinet Police Spokesperson, Captain Bradley Rawlinson, his body was found on the corner of Hibiscus- and Bree Streets with a gunshot wound to his forehead.

The suspect, 40-year-old Garick Koetaan, turned himself in while police were attending to the scene of the crime. He was arrested and is being detained at the Graaff-Reinet police station.

Graaff-Reinet residents and students at the East Cape Midlands College who know the deceased and suspect are shocked by the murder. Rumour has it that the shooting may have been triggered by a love triangle. It is alleged that Faulkner was romantically involved with the Koetaan's girlfriend.

A 9mm firearm that was recovered by the police at the scene of the crime, will be sent for ballistic testing.

On Faulkner's Facebook page are many pics of him surfing - his favourite pastime. His other hobbies included swimming and music. Friends and family shared their grief on Facebook and posted a touching music video featuring photographs of the deceased.

Junade Faulkner leaves behind his mother and father, a brother, three sisters and extended family and friends. He was loved by many in his hometown, while students at the East Cape Midlands College and others in Graaff-Reinet who knew him are also mourning his death. His best friend, Odwa Maggielies who lives in Humansdorp, said that they were so close that it feels as though a part of him has died with his friend.

Graaff-Reinet residents who know Koetaan, find it difficult to believe that he was capable of shooting another person. They describe him as a pleasant person and not in the least violent.

Koetaan appeared in the Graaff-Reinet Magistrates Court on Wednesday and will again appear next Tuesday.

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