The body of former world champion high jumper Jacques Freitag has been discovered in Pretoria, police confirmed on Wednesday. The 42-year-old athlete had been missing for two weeks, and local news reports indicate he was found with multiple gunshot wounds.
Freitag was reported missing on 24th June by his sister, who became concerned after visiting his home in Witbank on 16th June and finding him absent. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Freitag had informed his family that he was travelling to Pretoria and provided the address of the guest house where he would be staying.
The grim discovery was made by the SAPS Search and Rescue Team on Monday afternoon, near a cemetery in Pretoria West. Police have now reclassified the missing person’s case to a murder investigation. “The family of the deceased has identified the body,” a police spokesperson confirmed. “No one has been arrested yet, but the police are following up on leads.”
Freitag was renowned for his achievements in athletics, being one of the few athletes to win world championships at youth, junior, and senior levels. He secured a gold medal in the high jump at the 2003 World Championships in Paris, marking a significant highlight in his career.
The tragic death of Freitag has shocked the sporting community and his fans worldwide. The investigation into his murder continues, with the police urging anyone with information to come forward.
As the investigation unfolds, tributes are pouring in for the athlete who made a lasting impact on the sport of high jump. His legacy as a world champion remains, even as the circumstances of his untimely death prompt a search for justice.
