JOHANNESBURG – The St Stithians College community has been plunged into mourning following the sudden and tragic deaths of two young people who were found dead at a lodge in Sabie, Mpumalanga. The discovery of Grade 11 pupil Cameron Waldeck-Cooks and former pupil Ethan Coetzee has left the prestigious Johannesburg school grappling with the loss of two of its most promising and beloved members.
The bodies of 17-year-old Cameron and 19-year-old Ethan were reportedly found in the same room at a lodge in the popular tourist town on Monday morning, August 3, 2026. While the circumstances surrounding their deaths remain a mystery, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially launched an inquest to determine exactly what transpired in the final moments of the two teenagers.
The Heartbreaking Discovery
According to police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo, the investigation is in its early stages as authorities wait for medical results to shed light on the cause of death. "Police have opened an inquest docket for investigation after a male and female were found deceased at a lodge in Sabie. A post-mortem will be conducted to establish the cause of death," Masondo confirmed.
The news of the tragedy has traveled quickly through the halls of St Stithians, where both Ethan and Cameron were well-known and highly respected figures. The school, often referred to as "Saints," has been a second home to both teenagers for over a decade, making the news particularly difficult for staff and pupils to process.
Ethan Coetzee: A Leader and a Friend
Ethan Coetzee, who matriculated from the Boys' College in 2025, was remembered by the institution as a young man of immense character and dedication. Having spent his entire schooling career at Saints—from Grade R to Grade 12—Ethan was deeply woven into the fabric of the school community.
During his time at the college, Ethan excelled in multiple arenas. He was a talented sportsman, earning his rugby colours as a member of the 1st XV, and a national champion in eventing. Beyond his physical prowess, he was a senior pupil in Penryn House, where he served as a mentor and role model for younger boys.
"Ethan possessed a natural warmth and charisma that drew people to him, forging strong friendships," the college said in a moving tribute. "He had the ability to instil confidence in others, offering encouragement when it was needed most and making those around him feel seen, valued, and supported."
The school described him as a young man of strength, commitment, and humility who embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm. His loss has left a significant void among his former teammates, coaches, and the Class of 2025.
Cameron Waldeck-Cooks: The Supportive "Big Sister"
Cameron Waldeck-Cooks, a Grade 11 pupil at the Girls' College, was equally celebrated for her contributions to the school. Like Ethan, she had been part of the Saints family for 12 years, beginning her journey in Grade R in 2015.
Cameron was a standout athlete, particularly in rowing and netball. Her dedication to the rowing programme earned her the deep respect of her peers and coaches alike. However, it was her leadership and nurturing spirit that truly set her apart.
"Cameron will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and determination," the Girls' College stated. "She was a natural leader and a mentor to many younger girls in the rowing programme, often taking on the role of a supportive ‘big sister’ who encouraged and inspired those around her."
Staff members described her as a talented sportswoman who left a lasting impression on everyone she met. The school has expressed its deepest condolences to her family and friends as they navigate this unimaginable grief.
A Community in Mourning
The St Stithians community has rallied together to support the families of the two teenagers. Counseling services have been made available to pupils and staff as they attempt to come to terms with the loss. The school has requested privacy for the grieving families during this difficult time.
As the police continue their investigation in Sabie, the focus remains on celebrating the lives of two young people who were taken far too soon. The results of the post-mortem are expected to provide much-needed answers to a community that is currently searching for closure.
For now, the Saints family is united in its grief, remembering Ethan and Cameron not for the tragedy of their deaths, but for the joy, strength, and kindness they brought to the lives of those around them. The school’s flags fly at half-mast as a final salute to a dedicated rugby player and a spirited rower whose journeys ended unexpectedly in the mountains of Mpumalanga.
