‘God fetched him’: EC school mourns matric learner who drowned at KZN beach

Hoër Landbouskool Marlow in Cradock, Eastern Cape, is mourning the death of matric learner Jonathan Bradfield who drowned at KwaZulu-Natal’s Mtunzini Main Beach this week.

The 19-year-old had been swept out to sea, presumably in a rip current, when the tragedy struck during the school holiday.

TEEN DROWNS AT MTUNZINI BEACH

On Thursday, matric learner Jonathan Bradfield was swept out to sea during a trip to the Mtunzini Main Beach in KZN.

The tragedy occurred during a school holiday trip to KZN with his girlfriend and her family.

The KZN surf rescue network – comprising the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Mtunzini Community Police Forum, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife rangers and IPSS Medical Rescue – were immediately activated.

Their search-and-rescue operation also used a drone, a boat, and a jet ski.

According to NSRI Richards Bay station commander Norman Rautenbach, the teen was swimming with his girlfriend when she left the water. Upon looking back, she noticed Jonathan experiencing difficulty in the water before he disappeared in the surf zone.

Jonathan’s body was later discovered.

EC SCHOOL MOURNS MATRIC LEARNER’S DEATH

Jonathan Bradfield’s school, Hoër Landbouskool Marlow, shared a heartfelt tribute to the blonde-haired matric learner.

The agricultural school shared: “Our hearts go out to Johny’s father, brother, his family, friends, classmates, and everyone who loved him and walked with him part of his life’s journey. 

“Johny will be remembered for much more than just his time in a Marlow jacket. He was a friend, a classmate and a Wolram – a young man with a deep-rooted faith, a beautiful heart and a special place among those who knew him. He was much loved among the staff who got to know him through his Marlow years. His place and the memories he leaves behind will forever be a part of our school community”.

Jonathan’s aunt, Sharon Bradfield, also posted several emotional Facebook posts.

Some of the tributes included those from the teen’s school friends. One spoke of the “golden boy” and his strong Christian faith.

It read: “Johnny was a child of God. I will forever admire his boldness for his Christianity.

“I can only think that God came and fetched him cause he’s work as a disciple here on earth was done”