The communities of Vredenburg and Langebaan are in shock following the stabbing death of a young man at a rugby match in Langebaan at the weekend.

Tributes have been pouring in for the victim, 18-year-old Ryan Don Samuels, from Vredenburg.

Samuels had gone to visit his brother, a police officer, in Langebaan this past weekend. While his brother was working a day shift, he decided to go and watch a rugby match between Langebaan Rugby Football Club and St Helena RFC.

It was during the match that he was allegedly stabbed in the back, unprovoked, by an individual who has since been arrested.

Die Burger reports Ryan’s brother, McNeal Samuels, arrived on the scene, and the 18-year-old tragically died in his arms.

Samuels’ mother Reinette Diergaardt, who lives in Upington, told the publication on Monday that her world has collapsed.

“The news hit me like a blow. McNeal was on duty and went out to the scene after we called him. He and others struggled there, but Ryan died in his arms. It was terrible for him, terrible.”

Western Cape Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg says a 28-year-old man has been charged with murder.

“The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation. We can confirm that a 28-year-old male was arrested in connection with the murder and appeared in the Hopefield Magistrates’ court yesterday, Tuesday, 18 March 2025.”

The Boland Rugby Union has expressed its deep sadness at the tragic incident, saying they are working closely with the authorities as an investigation is conducted.

Boland Rugby Union President, Bennie van Rooi, expressed his condolences, stating:

“This is a heartbreaking moment for the rugby community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the deceased. We trust that the necessary processes will take place, and we will offer our full support where needed.”

St Helena Bay RFC has also expressed their devastation.

“We know that many of you witnessed a deeply heartbreaking and traumatic event during the Grand Challenge match against Langebaan. The loss of young lives is devastating, and we want to acknowledge the pain, sadness and shock that it has caused.”

They have sent their deepest sympathies to the family.

“There are no words that can truly ease the pain of losing someone so young, but please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of St Helena Bay Rugby Club and its supporters.”

The brutal end to Samuel’s life again raises concerns about knife and gun crimes, where young people often end up being the victims.

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