Shop cleaner dies in freak accident

STAFF at Checkers in Springbok are still in shock after a freak accident led to the death of a worker.

The tragedy happened last Saturday before the store was due to close when Chriselda “Oumeid” Bezuidenhoudt (42), from Vaalhoek, Okiep, was killed when a shelf fell on top of her.

According to colleagues, the cleaning lady suffered a medical emergency, and as she leaned on a shelf to maintain her balance, the shelf fell on her and she was declared dead on the scene.

Police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman, confirmed the incident, saying that its being investigated. 

He said: “The accident occurred at approximately 16:55, on Saturday.

“It is alleged that the female employee lost her balance. In an attempt to stabilise herself, she reached for a shelf. Unfortunately the shelf collapsed and fell on the deceased."

Shandolene Joseph and Bezuidenhoudt were colleagues at Checkers.

She said: “Oumeid enjoyed life fully. She would make every plan to put food on the table for kid and mother.

“Ons het gestry and shared our problems with each other.”

Nicole Engelbrecht worked with Bezuidenhoudt on the same skof, during 2025.

She describes her as a very friendly and open person, with a good heart. Someone that was always chatting to everyone in the shop.

Engelbrecht added: “We had great times together, especially, during afnaweke when we were chilling.

“Sometimes we had our verskille, but it stopped there.”

Heidi Stone, branch manager of Checkers, could not be reached for comments, despite calls and messages to her.

Anyone with information can contact Sergeant Arno Heyns on 082 495 5258 or alternatively call the SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111.