The community of Bishop Lavis is reeling after the tragic death of five-year-old Xavier Mitchell, who was brutally stabbed on Wednesday morning.
Story Summary:
- Xavier Mitchell, a five-year-old boy, was fatally stabbed by his nanny’s brother.
- The incident occurred in Bishop Lavis on Wednesday morning.
- Xavier’s parents, Ricardo and Sylvia Mitchell, expressed their devastation.
- The suspect, who reportedly had a psychotic episode, was apprehended by the community and is now in police custody.
What happened to Xavier Mitchell?
Xavier was at his nanny’s house on Sky Road, just a few doors down from his own home when the horrific incident occurred shortly before 11:00.
The suspect, the nanny’s brother, allegedly experienced a psychotic episode and attacked the young boy, stabbing him three times in the back.
Henry Abrahams, a neighbour who transported Xavier to the hospital, described the scene:
“When I came home, I was asked by a neighbour to take the boy to the hospital. At the time, the nanny had him in her hands. I asked her to bring a blanket and cover him. At the time, he was not talking. I dropped them, and about 30 minutes later, I was informed that the boy passed away.”
Despite efforts to save him, Xavier succumbed to his injuries at Matikwane Hospital.
Bishop Lavis child murder: Xavier’s arents Spseak out
Xavier’s parents, Ricardo and Sylvia Mitchell, were at work when the tragedy unfolded.
Speaking to IOL News, Ricardo recalled the moment he received the devastating news:
“Someone called me crying, telling me that my son was full of blood and that he was at the day hospital. I went straight to the hospital and he was in trauma, and the doctor told me that there was nothing they could do.”
Sylvia shared her heartbreaking experience of rushing to the hospital:
“When I got to the hospital, he was just laying there. I thought he was going to wake up. In my mind, I thought he was sick because they said blood was coming out. I didn’t think he was stabbed. I couldn’t believe it when I was told he was dead.”
The couple expressed their trust in the nanny, who had been taking care of Xavier and his younger brother for eight months.
Sylvia described her as being very good with the children, adding that her children loved her and she had a special knack with kids.
Police spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk confirmed the details of the incident:
“Bishop Lavis police are investigating a murder case following a stabbing incident on Wednesday, August 7, at about 10:40 at premises in Sky Road, Bishop Lavis where a five-year-old boy sustained a fatal stab wound. A male in his forties, who is believed to be mentally challenged, was arrested by the police and taken to Bishop Lavis SAPS for detention. The investigation continues.”
