Tributes poured in on social media for fallen Dr Shaheed Mugjenkar who passed away during a drag racing event held at the Killarney International Raceway on Saturday 16 July.
The much-loved doctor, who held a practice in Retreat, died after he reportedly lost control of his vehicle.
In a statement, Motor Sport South Africa (MSA) said Mugjenkar lost control of his Opel Kadett during a drag racing event.
“The MSA Drag Racing event at Killarney International Raceway on Saturday 16 July was stopped after a crash.
“Dr Shaheed Mugjenkar lost control of his Opel Kadett drag racing car after the finish line.
“The car veered across the drag strip and rolled over several times before hitting the safety barriers, ultimately landing on its side.”
The statement further added that marshals and medical personnel immediately attended to Mugjenkar who was later taken to hospital in a critical condition.
“Sadly, we have since been informed by hospital staff that he succumbed to his injuries later during the day with his family present at the hospital.
“He was a member of the club and a regular competitor for a number of years.
“The Western Province Motor Club extends its heartfelt condolences to his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this sad time.”
The exact cause of the crash will be investigated.
Meanwhile on social media, residents of Retreat and Steenberg remembered the doctor for his kindness.
Terri Lucas from the 7945 community group wrote: “Today the entire 7945 mourns the death of this amazing, kind-hearted man. To many of us, he was our doctor since we were little, since he opened his practice many years ago.
“You have served us with dignity Dr Mugjenkar, cared for us in ways that many other doctors couldn’t, you understood the need this community had for a cheap, affordable doctor and you did it with so much care . . . you were always so fond of my son.
“Today my heart breaks for your wife and children and I pray that they find solace in knowing that you were truly beloved by all your patients.
“I would literally take a taxi to Retreat to see you rather than go to any other doctor. I have had the pleasure of being your patient since I was 10 years old and I am broken by your death.”
Donna Amani Robinson commented: “The only person who made me feel comfortable enough to give a grown woman an injection. I am really sad that an amazing man, someone who you can talk to as a friend and a medical professional, has died. May his soul rest in peace. You will definitely be missed.”
Tracy-lee Jacobs wrote that Dr Mugjenkar fulfilled his purpose.
“He has been a part of some of my greatest moments. What a tragedy to all who knew him. May the family find comfort that he truly fulfilled his purpose here on earth.
“May he be granted a high place in heaven and may this be a reminder to us left behind to continue to live according to our purpose.”
Mimmi Daniels wrote that the community lost a gem.
“The Retreat community has lost a gem of a doctor. May your soul rest in peace and condolences to your loved ones.”
