Man, 24, arrested after father scalded with boiling water dies in hospital
Thomas Amos Mokoena, 52, was allegedly burned during an argument at the family home in Makgolokweng Village on 30 September and died of his injuries 15 days later.
A 24-year-old man from Makgolokweng Village has been arrested for the alleged murder of his father, Thomas Amos Mokoena, 52, after the older man died of burns allegedly inflicted with boiling water.
The Harrismith Detective Service made the arrest, the South African Police Service said in a statement from the office of the Free State provincial commissioner.
According to the police account, the father and son were involved in an argument at their home on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. During the altercation the son allegedly poured boiling water over his father’s upper and lower body, causing severe burns.
The injured man was first taken to a local hospital in Harrismith and then transferred to a hospital in Phuthaditjhaba for further treatment, where he remained for about 15 days.
On 14 October 2026, hospital authorities informed police of his death in the presence of his wife. A murder case was opened and the son was arrested.
The accused is expected to appear before the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court soon on a charge of murder.
The account is drawn from the police statement, which is a summary of the case rather than the court record. The charge has not been tested in court and the accused has not pleaded.
Enquiries on the case can be directed to Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring of the South African Police Service on 082 455 6176.
Source: South African Police Service, https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php?nid=71888
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