School holiday tragedy: Search continues for matric student’s body

The search continues for 19-year-old Jonathan Bradfield, a Cradock matric learner who was swept out to sea at the Mtunzini Main Beach during a school holiday vacation in KwaZulu-Natal.

SEARCH CONTINUES FOR MATRIC LEARNER PRESUMED DROWNED AT MTUNZINI BEACH

On Monday, 5 October, National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) spokesperson Craig Lambinon confirmed that a search and rescue mission for the missing teen had resumed at Mtunzini Main Beach on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast.

Last Thursday, Hoër Landbouskool Marlow matric learner Jonathan Bradfield was swept out to sea during a swim alongside his girlfriend.

The 19-year-old is believed to have been caught in a rip current.

The tragedy occurred during a school holiday trip to KZN with his girlfriend and her family.

The KZN surf rescue network – comprising the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Mtunzini Community Police Forum, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife rangers and IPSS Medical Rescue – was immediately activated.

At the time, Lambinon confirmed that an extensive air, sea and shoreline search had revealed no signs of the missing teen,

His aunt, Sharon Bradfield, confirmed that his body had not been recovered.

Jonathan Bradfield’s school, Hoër Landbouskool Marlow, shared a heartfelt tribute to the blonde-haired matric learner.

The agricultural school shared: “Our hearts go out to Johny’s father, brother, his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who loved him and walked with him part of his life’s journey. 

“Johny will be remembered for much more than just his time in a Marlow jacket. He was a friend, a classmate and a Wolram – a young man with a deep-rooted faith, a beautiful heart and a special place among those who knew him. He was much loved among the staff who got to know him through his Marlow years. His place and the memories he leaves behind will forever be a part of our school community”.

MORE SCHOOL HOLIDAY  TRAGEDIES

Another learner, a 16-year-old from Mtubatuba, is also presumed drowned after he went missing whilst swimming at Cape Vidal Beach on Saturday.

The teen and a 14-year-old pal, who was later rescued, were caught in rip currents.

A third teen, an 18-year-old from Mfuleni, is also presumed to have drowned after he disappeared in the surf at Glen Beach in Camps Bay over the weekend.