A woman and her two young daughters died from blunt-force injuries to the head in what prosecutors allege was a triple murder carried out by the woman’s husband, a British court heard Tuesday.
Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, is accused of killing his wife, Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, and their daughters, 15-year-old Natalie and 5-year-old Nala, at the family’s home in Great Denham, Bedfordshire.
The three victims were found dead inside the house on July 7 after relatives became concerned when they had not heard from Nothabo or the children for several days.
According to prosecutors, one of Nothabo’s cousins contacted police and requested a welfare check. Officers later discovered the mother and her daughters together inside the home.
During the opening court hearing on Tuesday, July 28, prosecutors said all three victims had suffered blunt-force head injuries.
Tshuma allegedly fled England after the killings. Authorities later tracked him to South Africa, where he had been arrested three days after the deaths on an unrelated charge involving an unlicensed firearm.
He remains in custody in South Africa while a court considers whether he should be extradited to England to face murder charges.
Nothabo’s family released a statement describing the deaths as an “unimaginable loss.”
“The Khumalo family is deeply saddened to confirm the passing of our beloved Zandile (Nothabo) Khumalo and her two children,” the statement said.
The family also thanked those who had offered prayers, messages of comfort and support.
“Your kindness and compassion have brought great strength to our family,” they said.
Natalie was remembered as a talented and accomplished student at Bedford Girls’ School.
Headmistress Gemma Gibson described the 15-year-old as “bright and accomplished” and said she was deeply loved by classmates and teachers.
“She was a talented dancer, musician and keen sportswoman,” Gibson said. “She was fun loving, full of life and had a positive impact on everyone she came into contact with.”
Nala’s school also paid tribute to the 5-year-old, calling her a “little ray of sunshine.”
Jo Webster, headteacher at Pilgrims Pre Prep School, said Nala was known for her bubbly personality, curiosity and sense of humor.
“Whether wearing one of her favorite colorful hair accessories, making those around her laugh or taking center stage in our Pre-School Nativity, Nala brought warmth and happiness wherever she went,” Webster said.
“She had an extraordinary impact on our community and will be remembered with enormous love and affection.”
The extradition proceedings are ongoing, and Tshuma has not yet entered a plea to the murder allegations in England.
More immigrants fucking up other countries. Stay in you own shithole.