The family of a woman who died from injuries sustained in a car accident, allegedly caused by drag racers in Grassy Park, is asking the community’s help to find the perpetrators.
Meshaye Wichman, from Mitchell’s Plain, was travelling with her husband and cousin when the accident occurred on the corner of 5th Avenue and Lake Road in Grassy Park on Saturday 26 March. She later died from her injuries.
Grassy Park police spokesperson Capt Wyneta Kleinsmith confirmed that a case of reckless and negligent driving was opened on Saturday.
“The charge changed to culpable homicide after a female that was in the minibus succumbed due to injuries sustained during the crash. The circumstances of the accident are still under investigation, no arrest has been made as yet. The driver of the vehicle, a golden Toyota, fled the scene after the accident.”
Quanita Wichman, the victim’s sister, is asking witnesses to come forward with any valid information.
“Please, if anyone has information about the accident that happened on the corner of 5th Ave and Lake Road, Grassy Park, please come forward.”
Wichman said her sister and her family were on their way home when their vehicle was struck by two alleged drag racers.
“My sister and husband were called to pick up my cousin’s wife and kids from an event.
“After my sister picked them up, on their way home, the van was struck by two drag-racers racing. Their van flipped and my sister was flung out of the vehicle and suffered head trauma. On our arrival at the hospital, we were informed she was brain dead and her organs were already failing.
“She eventually passed away at 08:00 the following morning because her injury was too severe.”
Her memorial service was held on Thursday 31 March.
“The memorial went very well. People have also been coming forward with tips, but it has not turned into solid leads because no-one wants to eventually go to court to testify.
“If anyone has solid leads, please come forward. We need to bring the perpetrators to justice. I am begging the public if anyone has any information or video footage please come forward.”
Family and friends have been paying tribute to Meshaye on social media.
In a Facebook post Cecilia Irene Greenwood says: “How I miss you so much right now, my heart ripped into a thousand pieces, I thought I had more time! I wish I could call u and tell you I love you one last time.”
