Old woman was beheaded inside her own home, allegedly by her
A 79-year-old woman was beheaded inside her own home, allegedly by her pensioner sister, who has since been arrested.
Residents looked on in shock as the remains of 79-year-old Constance “Aunty Connie” Scholtz were removed from her home. Authorities confirmed that her death was not natural, and her sister, 63-year-old Aletta Rose, has since been arrested and charged with her murder.
According to Western Cape police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk, the motive for the killing remains under investigation. Police were called to the scene after concerns were raised by neighbours.
Residents became suspicious when they noticed that the usually neat curtains of Scholtz’s home appeared disordered. Concerned neighbours called out to check on her wellbeing. Instead of Scholtz responding, Rose appeared at the window and told them that her sister had gone to Robertson and would return later, claiming she was tidying the flat in her absence. This explanation raised further suspicion.
Margaret van der Merwe, who lives across the road and is the mother-in-law of Scholtz’s son, Morne, felt uneasy and contacted him. Morne arrived at the property shortly after 13:00 on Thursday.
Van der Merwe observed as Rose answered the door and spoke to Morne at the entrance, but did not allow him inside. Morne was told the same story — that his mother was out of town and would return over the weekend. Rose then escorted him off the property and locked the gate behind him, something neighbours said was unusual.
Witnesses also reported odd behaviour, noting that Rose appeared to move backwards toward the door instead of turning around. A second-floor neighbour later noticed a large bloodstain on the back of her shirt and informed Morne, prompting him to return.
When Rose failed to respond, Morne and neighbours forced entry into the property. Inside, he discovered signs that something was seriously wrong. Police were called immediately.
As officers searched the home, they uncovered evidence indicating a violent incident had taken place. The investigation revealed that Scholtz had been killed inside the house, and her remains had been concealed in various parts of the property.
Van der Merwe said Morne collapsed after being asked to identify his mother.
Neighbours gathered outside described the scene as deeply disturbing. Some said police officers appeared visibly shaken while removing evidence from the home.
A close friend of Scholtz, Sammy Brown, expressed disbelief, describing her as a kind and vibrant person. Family members said she was known for her neatness, strong personality, and sharp sense of humour.
It is understood that Rose had not been living with Scholtz, but had been visiting following a family funeral the previous weekend. Relatives stated that the sisters had not shown any signs of conflict.
Court proceedings revealed that Rose has a previous conviction related to a violent offence dating back to 1997. No further details were provided.
The case continues, with authorities working to determine the full circumstances and motive behind the incident.
