A 16-year-old boy was found dead at his family home in Phoenix, north of Durban, on Wednesday morning, leaving relatives and community members devastated.
According to Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), officers were called to a residence in Esselen Crescent, Unit 13, at approximately 11:15am after the teenager was discovered unresponsive in an outbuilding on the property.
The boy was reportedly found by his mother while she was carrying out household chores. Family members and others at the scene gained access to the outbuilding after noticing him inside, but he was found to have died.
RUSA officers responded to the scene and were informed that the teenager was a Grade 10 pupil at Crystal Point Secondary School.
According to information provided to responders, the teenager had recently been suspended from school after being found vaping. Although he briefly returned to school following the suspension, family members said he had become withdrawn and reluctant to attend classes.
It is understood that he left home at around 3pm on Tuesday and did not return. Relatives reportedly became concerned when he failed to come back home.
The circumstances surrounding the incident are expected to be investigated by the relevant authorities.
The tragic incident has sparked renewed concern about the emotional wellbeing of young people and the importance of mental health support for learners facing personal and academic challenges.