Update

GEORGE NEWS - It was a bittersweet day for Danielle van Jaarsveld’s family as the man accused of causing the accident that claimed her life appeared in the George Magistrate’s Court for only the second time, more than three years after her death.

For Van Jaarsveld’s loved ones, the case was never about revenge or anger. They say they simply want justice for her untimely death from a crash they believe could have been avoided. 

While they understand the case is still in its early stages, the family expressed relief that it has finally been placed on the court roll.

Gareth Webster, who lives in Sedgefield and now works in Knysna, appeared in the George Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday 10 February. The matter was postponed to Tuesday 3 March, when it resumes in the George Regional Court.

Van Jaarsveld (41) died on 6 November 2022 following a head-on collision on Swartvlei Beach Road near the Sedge Links Golf Course in Sedgefield. She was driving a Kia sedan when it collided with the Audi SQ5 performance SUV Webster was driving.

The impact was so severe that Van Jaarsveld’s vehicle was pushed backwards, rolled several times, and came to rest on the side of the road. She died on the way to hospital.

Her passenger, her sister-in-law, Monique van Zyl, sustained serious injuries and had to undergo multiple operations and physiotherapy to regain the ability to walk. The two had reportedly been on their way to the beach.

Danielle van Jaarsveld

Webster and his passenger were not seriously injured. At the time of the crash, Webster was allegedly driving a vehicle belonging to his then employer, Audi Centre George. He had reportedly attended a golf day at the nearby course earlier that day.

In their pursuit of justice, Van Jaarsveld’s family approached AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit, whose involvement led to the matter being fully investigated and formally enrolled.

Gareth Webster as he left the court on Tuesday morning.