Police have identified the father and two young children found dead at a home in the Belvedere area of Tongaat on Tuesday as 37-year-old Leon Munsamy and his daughters, Emilia Munsamy and Elana Munsamy.
Authorities believe the deaths may be the result of an apparent murder-suicide. The incident occurred at a residence in Shastri Circle, where emergency services were called after reports of three unresponsive individuals inside the home.
According to police, the tragedy allegedly followed a domestic dispute between Munsamy and his wife. It is alleged that after the argument, Munsamy purchased poison and mixed it into food consumed by the children. The two girls, aged four and six, reportedly ate the food and later died. Munsamy was subsequently found deceased inside the home in what authorities believe was a suicide.
Emergency responders from KZN VIP Emergency Medical Services were among the first on scene. Medics assessed the three occupants and, tragically, declared all deceased upon arrival. The exact timeline and cause of death are still subject to forensic confirmation.
Spokesperson Prem Balram of Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) said the organization received a call for assistance at approximately 1:49 p.m. after concerns were raised about three unresponsive individuals at the residence. Reaction officers arrived to find police and other emergency services already in attendance.
Unconfirmed reports indicate that the children’s scholar transport service provider raised the alarm when the girls did not come out for collection, prompting concern and ultimately leading to the discovery inside the home.
Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Authorities have cautioned that details remain preliminary due to the sensitive nature of the case.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Tongaat community, with many expressing heartbreak over the loss of two young lives.
Police say further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
