Tragic Discovery of Timothy van Asche’s Body in Hennops River – Latest Developments and Search Efforts
The search for the missing Pretoria man, Timothy van Asche, has sadly come to an end with the discovery of his body in the Hennops River. Timothy, 36, was last seen leaving his home in the early hours of January 20, and his vehicle was later found submerged in the river. This tragedy has left his family, friends, and the local community in mourning. Here’s everything we know so far about the incident, including updates on the ongoing investigation.
Timeline of Events:
Timothy’s disappearance began on the night of January 19, when his last known contact was made at 21:10. The following morning, CCTV footage revealed that he left his Pretoria home at 03:54 on Monday, January 20, driving his vehicle. However, his whereabouts remained unclear until a major breakthrough occurred.
On the morning of January 22, at 09:48, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) received reports of a vehicle found submerged in the Hennops River near the Gauteng and North West Province border. A search operation, involving the NSRI, SAPS Water Policing, and other emergency services, was launched immediately.
Sadly, despite extensive efforts to locate him, the search ended in tragedy. Timothy’s body was recovered around 10:30 on Thursday, January 23, approximately 2 kilometers from where his vehicle was discovered.
Search Operation Details:
The search for Timothy van Asche involved multiple emergency response teams. The NSRI Hartbeespoort Dam station, along with Hartbeespoort SRU, SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services, and Tshwane emergency services, worked together to recover both the submerged vehicle and his body.
Arthur Crewe, the NSRI Hartbeespoort Dam station commander, confirmed that Timothy’s body was found in the river during the continued search operation on Thursday morning. “Our thoughts are with the family of Timothy van Asche in this difficult time,” said Crewe.
Ongoing Investigation:
The circumstances surrounding Timothy’s death remain under investigation. His vehicle, which was submerged in the Hennops River, has been taken into the care of the police as part of their ongoing investigation. Authorities urge anyone with information regarding Timothy’s disappearance to contact the Atteridgeville Police Station at 012 385 1101.
In an Unrelated Incident:
In another tragic development, the NSRI Hartbeespoort Dam team is also involved in an ongoing search for a missing fisherman in the vicinity of the Oberon Resort, Hartbeespoort Dam. The fisherman’s canoe was located, but authorities continue their search efforts for the missing man, with hopes of a safe recovery.
The discovery of Timothy van Asche’s body brings an end to the search, but leaves many unanswered questions. Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and death, and anyone with relevant information is urged to come forward.
Also read: Rescue Teams Intensify Search for Missing Man Swept Away in Jukskei River
