The South African Government has offered its condolences following the murder of a South African woman, who was allegedly killed in the U.S. by her husband.

The Fairfax County Police in West Virginia reported that on 24 May, at 7:48 pm, officers responded to a domestic incident inside a residence in Chantilly.

The suspect reported to officers that he had assaulted and killed his wife.

Officers located the 32-year-old victim, Kim White, suffering from trauma to the upper body. She was declared dead at the scene.

Her husband, Alexander Towne, was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Fairfax County Adult Detention Centre, where he was charged with Second-Degree Murder.

The Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation has expressed deep sadness at the death of White.

The Minister Ronald Lamola has extended condolences to the bereaved family during this profoundly difficult time.

Spokesperson Chrispin Phiri says the SA Embassy in Washington D.C. is providing full consular assistance to the family.

“The circumstances surrounding this tragic death remain under active investigation by the relevant United States authorities. Out of respect for the ongoing investigative process, the sensitivity of the matter, and the privacy of the grieving family, the South African Government will not be providing further detailed commentary at this time.”

Kim White, originally from Cape Town, moved to the United States with her husband in 2023. He is a U.S. citizen and military veteran. They had met in Dubai, where she was teaching.

Her grieving family are now faced with the heartbreaking task of bringing her home to South Africa.

They have started a BackaBuddy campaign, as the process of repatriating a loved one’s remains is very costly.

The estimated cost to bring Kim home ranges from $4,000 to $6,000 USD.

Her cousin, Lauren Delcarme, says the family is devastated.

“Kim was a vibrant and cherished member of our family, whose warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit touched everyone she met. Her sudden and untimely death has left us in profound grief, and we are now faced with the heartbreaking task of bringing her home to South Africa, where she can be laid to rest among her loved ones.”

She says every donation, no matter the amount, brings the family one step closer to giving Kim the dignified farewell she deserves.

As of 10:40 on 3 June, the family has managed to reach 73% of their goal of raising R108 000 to bring Kim home.

White was a former learner at Bloubergrant High School, who also expressed their grief after her murder.