The family of the late Nateniel Julies remembers him on his birthday. Photo by Happy Mnguni
Nateniel Julies, ‘killed’ by cops, remembered by family on his birthday. They visited his grave in Eldorado Park, Joburg, with balloons. They sang ‘Happy Birthday’ and his favorite song.” @dailysunsa pic.twitter.com/Pkb5kGkmyf
— happy mnguni (@happy_mnguni) July 1, 2024
NATENIEL Julies may be gone, but his spirit lives on.
On Saturday, 29 June, Nateniel’s family visited his grave at Kliptown Cemetery, south of Joburg, to celebrate his birthday.
They brought balloons, prayed, and sang his favourite songs, marking what would have been his 20th birthday.
Nateniel’s life was tragically cut short when he was allegedly shot by police on 26 August 2020 in Eldorado Park, at just 16 years old. Nateniel, who lived with Down Syndrome, became a victim in a shocking incident involving police officers.
The three former Eldorado Park officers – Constable Caylene Whiteboy, Sergeant Simon “Scorpion” Ndyalvane, and Detective Sergeant Voster Netshiongolo – were arrested in connection with his murder.
Nateniel’s mother, Bridgette Harris, said her son’s birthday remains a poignant reminder of his life and the tragic circumstances of his death.
“Today is a special day where I find myself thinking of my son who was brutally killed. On his birthday, he used to wake up early, and we would hug him, sing for him, and kiss him. The first thing he would ask for was his favourite biscuits, his face lighting up with a million-dollar smile,” Bridgette recounted.
Bridgette took Daily Sun to Nateniel’s monument, built by residents in his memory. She shared that every time she passes the monument, her heart skips a beat, remembering the dark night he was shot.
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“He saw the police, who he thought were his heroes, and ran to them, but they allegedly opened fire,” she said, with the pain evident in her voice.
The monument now stands as a stark reminder of the tragedy, a place where Bridgette feels both connection and loss.
She wept not having a chance to comfort her son in his final moments, as he was quickly taken to the hospital where he died upon arrival. Bridgette hopes for justice as the trial of the officers involved progresses, seeking closure for her family.
Nateniel’s younger sister, Celine Harries, and cousin, Claren Javaid, also shared their memories.
Celine spoke of Nateniel’s joyful nature and how deeply he was loved by the community, while Claren recalled his infectious laughter and the happiness he brought to their lives despite his challenges.
The family’s grief is compounded by their disappointment in the police, whom they trusted to protect Nateniel.
“I’m disappointed that the police allegedly killed him because he had Down syndrome; they had no right to shoot him. He didn’t understand what was happening around him, and they just took his life,” Claren said, highlighting the senseless nature of the tragedy.
As the community continues to grapple with the loss, Nateniel’s story remains a powerful call for justice and remembrance, ensuring that his spirit will never be forgotten.
Bridgette Harris still mourns the loss of her son, Nateniel Julies, who was reportedly shot by police. She says it’s painful to walk past the spot in Eldorado Park where he died – it feels like her heart stops. @dailysunsa pic.twitter.com/moA9rQ4ZiC
— happy mnguni (@happy_mnguni) July 1, 2024
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