The Stellenbosch University community has been rocked by the discovery of Ashwill Boer’s body, a 25-year-old engineering student who went missing last week. Boer’s body was found in an empty section of one of the university’s on-campus residences on Friday, November 6.
The student, who hailed form Worcester, was last seen on Sunday, November 1. No foul play is suspected, according to the university’s Vice-Rector for Learning and Teaching, Professor Arnold Schoonwinkel.
“He was found in a part of the residence that has been evacuated for COVID-19 isolation. It is not occupied at the moment. As a university community, we are deeply saddened by this loss and wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends and fellow students during this time of sorrow,” Schoonwinkel said to IOL.
The Division of Student Affairs has been in contact with Boer’s family, and met with students of the residence on Friday as well.
“We also call on everyone to respect the privacy of Mr Boer’s loved ones and classmates traumatised by this event,” Schoonwinkel said.
According to South African Police Service spokesperson André Traut, the circumstances surrounding Boer’s death are under investigation.
“A death inquest case docket has been registered and no crime is suspected at this stage,” Traut said.
Picture: SAPS