Beautiful life lost in horror crash

GEORGE NEWS - Messages and Facebook comments of condolences have been pouring in after the untimely death of a beloved wife and mother from George, Danielle Louise van Jaarsveld (41) on Sunday 6 November.

Van Jaarsveld and her sister-in-law, Monique van Zyl (29), were on their way to Swartvlei Beach at about 16:00 in her Kia Rio when they were involved in a head-on collision with a black Audi Q5 on the road between the Sedge Links golf course and Swartvlei Beach.

The Rio was smashed beyond repair.

At this stage it is unclear exactly how the accident happened, but from what can be deduced, impact was at a high speed. This narrow road is known for its serpentine bends and bumps, and motorists are warned by means of road signs to stick to the speed limit.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Sgt Chris Spies confirmed the accident and said police are investigating a case of culpable homicide.

Van Jaarsveld sustained serious injuries and was transported to hospital. "She unfortunately succumbed to her injuries and was declared dead on arrival at the hospital. This is an ongoing police probe and the cause of the accident is yet to be established," said Spies.

Van Zyl sustained various serious injuries and is recovering in hospital. The driver and passenger in the Audi escaped without serious injuries.

The Audi was seriously damaged. Van Jaarsveld's car was written off.

A message from the family

"Our children were involved in a life-changing accident last Sunday. Sadly we've lost one, but thankfully God has spared us our other one. Mo [Monique ] has traumatic injuries, however, we are grateful that we still have her in our lives. Dani worked at Bridal Inn for many years where she brought joy to so many lives doing what she loved most - creating and delighting others on their special day.

"Kindness and love is not an act, it is a reflection of your soul. This epitomises Dani. We pray for healing and grace in the lives of her husband Christo and their young son Aiden who are left behind.

There has been a flood of support and love from the community and we thank them all for their kind words and deeds."

The Audi that was involved in the accident.

Lil' old me

A close friend of van Jaarsveld who wishes to remain anonymous, remembers her as a kind, gentle and loving person.

"'Lil old me', was one of Danielle's most comforting words when you complimented her on what an incredible person she was - beautiful, gentle, loving and caring on the deepest levels," he said.

"Her son and her family were the closest to her heart and she was always excited to spend time with them. For birthdays she always baked the most delicious cakes and made sure that it was a super special day for that person. She was dutiful at work and never said no to anything.

She loved nature and in her spare time always took someone out for a drive - just like this tragic Sunday. Our hearts will ache for her forever and the memories with her will always stay with us. Rest gently most beautiful person."

A screengrab from Google Earth indicating the speed limit on the road where van Jaarsveld lost her life.