The Western Cape SAPS has indicated that “electric shock” led to the death of eight-year-old Matthew Baartman, who died after attending school last month. 

Matthew, a grade 3 learner at Klapmuts Primary School, attended school on 23 January, but was later that morning transported to a medical facility where he was declared dead. 

The circumstances of his death had since then been shrouded in mystery, with there being some speculation around an electricity connection.  

Matthew’s mother and others believed that he may have been electrocuted because he drank water from an outside tap that was near exposed wiring.  

At the time, the school and the Western Cape Education Department noted that safety assessments were carried out after the incident and determined that the school was safe. It was reopened to learners three days later.  

A provincial SAPS spokesperson, Constable Ndakhe Gwala, confirmed the latest on the investigation with SmileFM on Monday.  

“This office confirms that the death of the eight-year-old boy was a result of an electric shock,” said Gwala, noting that investigations are ongoing.  

A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), Bronagh Hammond, reiterated that the police investigation is ongoing, meaning that this recent note from the police was not a conclusion on the cause of Matthew’s death.  

“We have yet to get formal notification from SAPS and [Western Health and Wellness],” said Hammond. 

Hammond further confirmed that WCED officials had gone to the school with an electrical contractor after the incident, noting that they “could not find any evidence of live wires or electrical connections”. 

“We also indicated that we would fully support SAPS in the investigation of the incident, which we have, including the determination of the cause of death. 

Matthew was buried on 1 February. 

Hammond, on behalf of the WCED, offered condolences to all those affected by his death.  

“The tragic incident has understandably caused great concern, and we offer our deepest condolences to the learners’ family and the school community.”