The Delft community in Cape Town is reeling after the heartbreaking death of 9-year-old Jody Windvogel, a Grade 3 learner at Delft North Primary School who died on Sunday after taking his own life at his family’s home on The Hague Avenue. The devastating incident has left residents, educators, and local leaders shocked and grieving the loss of a child whose life ended far too soon.
Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened and that Delft police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. According to authorities, Jody was discovered in the backyard by his brother, found on his knees with a rope around his neck. He was declared deceased on 16 November 2025. Officers are now gathering statements and working to understand what may have led to the young boy’s death.
The community of Delft, already burdened by poverty, violence, and ongoing trauma, has been deeply shaken. Residents say that losing a child in this manner is almost too much to bear. Ward Councillor Michelle Adonis expressed her sorrow and offered condolences to the family, saying Jody should have been enjoying the simple joys of childhood—running in the street, playing games with friends, and looking forward to Christmas and end-of-year school celebrations. She described the tragedy as one that has “shaken our community to its core.”
For Jody’s family, the pain is unimaginable. His mother, Judith Windvogel, recounted the moments before the incident, explaining that she had been cooking and doing laundry while Jody stepped outside to play, something he often did while caring for his beloved pet bird. Only minutes later, she was alerted by another son that something was terribly wrong. Judith rushed outside and found Jody with a rope around his neck. She removed it immediately, but it was too late. Judith revealed that this was not the first time her son had attempted such an act, though the family was previously able to save him.
Through tears, Judith said she does not know what drove Jody to harm himself. She explained that he never spoke of being bullied and that he was always close to her. Jody’s grandmother, Petro Windvogel, echoed the family’s confusion and heartbreak. She urged the public to stop spreading harmful rumours on social media, including false claims that Judith had left the house to buy alcohol.
As the investigation continues, the Delft community is uniting in grief, calling for compassion, support, and sensitivity toward the mourning family. The loss of young Jody has left a scar that will not easily fade, reminding many of the urgent need for mental-health resources and emotional support for vulnerable children.
