Father of five tragically killed while buying sweets for children

A father of five tragically lost his life after he was stabbed to death while purchasing sweet treats for his children at a shop located at a garage on Sunday evening in Mitchells Plain.

The life of Diego Soldaat, 35, was cut short after he was killed at BP garage in Clock Tower, Mitchells Plain.

His family are seeking answers claiming that he was innocent and not affiliated to any trouble or gang activity.

His brother, Luke Soldaat said the tragedy has left the family shattered as Soldaat leaves behind his five children, his parents and five siblings.

The heartbroken brother explained: “We are not sure what transpired, we are waiting on feedback from the detectives to get back to us with footage as to why they stabbed him.

"According to a witness, Diego was at the garage buying Smarties and chocolates for his children at home and on his way out, two guys just stabbed him three times.

“The moment it happened, someone came running to our house and told us that Diego is lying there, he was stabbed, they didn't know if he is dead or still alive.

“When we got to the scene, the police were already there administering CPR. When the ambulance arrived, he blew out his last breath and was declared deceased at the scene.”

Luke added that his family is heartbroken, with their pastor dad being devastated by the tragedy.

“Everyone is broken, my mother is shattered and my father does not speak," he said.

"We have questions we want to ask because why was an innocent guy killed?

"He was a people’s person and stood for what is right. He was not affiliated to any gang activity or any sort of trouble, he had a job.”

Tributes have been flowing in on social media as friends and family come to terms with the passing of Soldaat.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi said a murder investigation was underway.

"Lentegeur police attended to a complaint on October 12," he said.

"Upon arrival at the crime scene at about 7.50pm near the corners Lavender Street and Eisleben Road, they found the body of a 35-year-old man who sustained stab wounds to his body.

"The victim was declared deceased at the scene by the medical personnel. The unknown suspects fled and they are yet to be arrested. The motive for this attack is now the subject of an investigation by the South African Police Service."

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