A South African schoolgirl has allegedly been killed while undertaking work for a prestigious accolade.
Cameron Waldeck-Cooks, 17, was discovered deceased in a lodge room in Mpumalanga, South Africa, on Monday, 3rd August. The teenager was participating in a five-day hiking expedition as part of her efforts towards The President's Award for Youth Empowerment, South Africa's version of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, which mandates a multi-day adventurous trek.
Cameron had been invited to accompany two families on the excursion. Ethan Coetzee, 19, was also amongst the party. Cameron attended the prestigious St Stithians Girls' College, while Ethan was a graduate of the institution's Boys' College in 2025, reports the Mirror.
Investigation escalates to murder
Both Cameron and Ethan's bodies were located and an inquest was initially launched. The inquest was later escalated to a murder investigation and officials stated that initial post-mortem results suggested Cameron may have perished by strangulation, while Ethan is thought to have taken his own life.
In a Facebook statement, Cameron's parents Derrick Cooks and Claire Waldeck-Cooks stated: "We were notified on the morning of 3rd of August 2026 that Graham Coetzee discovered her body. We appointed an independent forensic pathologist who has advised us that his preliminary findings indicate that Cameron died as a result of strangulation and suffocation. The police have confirmed that they have opened a murder investigation."
They requested that conjecture should not be portrayed as truth while investigative and forensic procedures continue.
Family's tribute
Cameron's parents characterised her as a "deeply loved daughter, sister, family member, friend and student." She was kind-hearted, warm and determined. She had a quiet strength, cared deeply for those around her, and naturally encouraged and supported younger girls who looked up to her," they wrote. "Her loss has left an immeasurable void in our lives."
