Claremont police have opened an inquest following the death of a 46-year-old woman at Cavendish Square Shopping Centre in Cape Town this past week.
Police responded to reports of a disturbance at approximately 20:10, where the woman was found near the Exclusive Books and Seattle Coffee area on the bottom floor.
Emergency medical personnel on scene pronounced her dead shortly after arrival.
Jumped
Although the exact circumstances remain under investigation, early indications suggest she may have jumped from one of the centre’s upper levels.
A post-mortem examination will determine the official cause of death.
Several eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise, followed by a scream, before the discovery of the woman’s body.
The scene was cordoned off while authorities conducted preliminary investigations.
Expressed condolences
In a statement, Cavendish Square Centre Manager Faizah Behardien expressed condolences to the woman’s family, urging the public and media to respect their privacy, particularly on social media platforms.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic incident. Our thoughts are with the family during this incredibly difficult time,” Behardien said.
Police are appealing to anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
The incident has cast a sombre tone over one of Cape Town’s most frequented shopping centres, prompting conversations around mental health awareness and public safety in communal spaces.
