Pretty Mahlangu's family relieved accused facing additional charges

The family of a 15-year-old who died after a car ran her over during a coming-of-age ceremony in Germiston said they were relieved that the accused now faced additional charges.

Pretty Mahlangu died on the way to hospital after a car ploughed into the group of girls at the traditional Zulu ceremony.

The accused, Martha van der Walt, appeared at the Germiston Magistrates Court on Thursday on charges of murder, attempted murder, in addition to the initial culpable homicide charge.

The deceased teen’s family said they had lost hope in seeing any progress with the case following multiple postponements.

Family spokesperson Mzwandile Soyaya: "I believe that steady but surely, we are heading in getting the justice for Pretty. Why I am saying, so remember we were busy crying that we want the charge to be changed from culpable homicide to murder."

He said that after Thursday's proceedings their hope had been renewed.

"To our surprise today, the family and the community members, we have accepted the fact that we will live with a culpable homicide charge but to our amusement today, when we entered the courtroom, we are hearing that three further charges are being added."

JOIN US ON WHATSAPP

Stay ahead of the story: Join our WhatsApp channel today.

Want breaking news at your fingertips, the moment it happens? Our WhatsApp Channel is the fastest way to stay connected with the stories that matter most.

From breaking news alerts to exclusive stories, analysis and must-read features - you’ll get it all directly on your phone.

Joining is simple.

Just click Follow on our WhatsApp Channel and stay informed.