Farm attack: Family provides update on Donovan Marx’s condition

WARNING: This article contains graphic descriptions of violence and injuries that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.

The family of North West cattle farmer Donovan Marx have provided an update on his recovery following a brutal farm attack in which his ears were cut off, he was shot in the back and stabbed in the thigh.

Marx, 50, was attacked on his farm between Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp on Wednesday, 28 October.

In an update shared by DA MP Ian Cameron, the family confirmed that Marx had undergone surgery and was stable in the Critical Care unit at Mediclinic Potchefstroom.

His pain has improved, but his injuries remain serious.

The family also appealed for privacy while Marx continues receiving treatment and police investigate the attack.

Family corrects false claims about injuries

Cameron said he wanted to correct misinformation circulating about the attack, particularly claims that Marx had been castrated or that an attempt had been made to castrate him.

The family confirmed that these claims were completely false.

According to the latest information provided to Cameron, one of Marx’s kidneys was injured during the attack but was saved during surgery. His ears were cut off and he was stabbed in the thigh.

Cameron warned against sharing unverified information, saying false claims mislead the public and disregard the family’s privacy.

What happened during the farm attack?

The attackers reportedly struck shortly after Marx’s wife, Louise, left for work in Ventersdorp shortly before 08:00.

The assailants allegedly tied up a farmworker before turning on Marx.

The worker later managed to free himself and raise the alarm. He escaped without injuries.

Marx was shot in the back and stabbed in the leg, while his ears were cut off during the assault.

Paramedics rushed him to Mediclinic Potchefstroom, where he underwent surgery.

His attackers fled in his red Isuzu bakkie.

An alert was issued at approximately 11:40, warning motorists to look out for the stolen vehicle and not to confront the suspects, who were believed to be armed.

Following news of the attack, members of the Ventersdorp and Potchefstroom communities rallied around the family.

A prayer gathering was held outside Mediclinic Potchefstroom on Wednesday evening as residents came together to pray for Marx’s recovery.

In their latest statement, Louise and the family expressed gratitude to both communities, emergency and medical personnel, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and everyone who had offered prayers and support.

Their message was that their greatest wish was for Marx to receive the rest, treatment and opportunity he needs to recover.

Family asks public to respect privacy and investigation

The family has asked members of the public to respect restrictions on hospital visits and avoid unnecessary calls or requests for medical details.

They also urged anyone with relevant information about the attack to provide it directly to SAPS or the family’s authorised legal representatives.

The family cautioned against circulating speculation or sharing information that could interfere with potential evidence.

Freedom Front Plus leader Corné Mulder previously condemned the attack and called for stronger measures to protect farming communities.

South African UFC fighter Dricus du Plessis also reacted to the horrific attack, by reposting a message calling for action.

On his Instagram Stories, Du Plessis reposted several videos and posts about the news.

North West police spokesperson Captain Majang Skalkie had earlier confirmed that police were investigating the incident, with further details expected once the relevant information had been gathered.

As at the time of publishing, no arrests have been confirmed.