The LGBTQ+ community in the Western Cape is mourning the death of Justine Davids, a 17-year-old LGBTQ+ learner who was murdered in Paarl on 9 August.
According to Paarl East SAPS, the transgender teenager — also known as Justine Jameelia Evangelista — was stabbed to death in an open field in Paulus Street, Lantana, Paarl, at about 1am.
Reports indicate that Justine was walking with a friend when the attack happened.
While the friend managed to escape, Justine fell victim to the deadly knife attack. Police have not yet disclosed further details about the assault or a possible motive, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Three arrested in connection with murder
The Cape Argus reported that police arrested three people, aged 17, 18 and 20, in connection with the murder.
The suspects appeared in the Paarl Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 11 August, with arrangements being made for the placement of the minor.
Supporters gathered outside the court to call for justice for Justine and demand that the suspects be denied bail.
An online petition has also been launched, urging the court to protect the community and the integrity of the investigation by ensuring that the accused remain behind bars.
“We call on the court to carefully consider the seriousness of the charges, the safety of the community, and the safety of LGBTQI+ and queer people in Paarl and surrounding communities when considering bail,” stated the petitioners.
“No family should have to bury their loved one because of violence. No LGBTQI+ person should have to live in fear simply because they are living openly and authentically.”
Fears of a possible queerphobic attack
Messages of grief and outrage over the brutal killing of such a young person have spread across social media, with many expressing concern that the attack may have been motivated by queerphobia.
“On a daily basis, our brothers and sisters are killed for being who they choose to be and who they believe authentically define themselves,” stated the Facebook LGBT+ Tribute Page.
Justine’s school, the L.K. Zeeman Academy, expressed its sadness over her death in a social media post, describing her as “our beloved learner”.
The school, while misgendering her, highlighted her “warm presence, bright spirit, and the quiet strength [she] carried”, adding that she would be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
“[She] left a lasting mark on our school community, and we are grateful for the time we shared with [her].”
In a statement, Gender Dynamix extended its condolences to Justine’s family, friends, school and community.
“Justine was more than the violence that ended her life. They were a young person with a future, loved and remembered by those who knew them,” said the Cape Town-based trans rights group.
“We ask the trans and gender diverse community to stand with Justine and the family in asking the courts for justice…”
Another queer teenager killed in South Africa
Justine’s murder comes amid ongoing concern over violence against young LGBTQ+ people in South Africa.
The Western Cape was also the site of the recent murder of 16-year-old Kwakhanya Mhlanganisi, who was killed in December 2025. Two suspects stand accused of beating Kwakhanya and setting him alight.
In January, the mutilated body of 19-year-old queer teen Sbongimpilo “Shana” Mzobe was discovered under a bridge in Msunduzi in KwaZulu-Natal.
