Large South African Estate Faces Complicated Estate Process After Brutal Murders

The two surviving children of a couple murdered at their South African home in January may inherit a large portion of the R200 million estate. The children, Marli van Breda, 16, and Henri van Breda, 20, lost their parents and older brother in a violent attack in the family’s home. Marli survived the attack though she was badly injured and left for dead, and is currently being guarded by police while she recovers in a rehabilitation center. Henri is living with his uncle, who was appointed as guardian of both children. A criminal defense team has been organized for Henri, who called for help on the night of the murders over three hours after the attacks, and said that an intruder armed with an axe attacked him and his family.

Due to the complicated nature of the tragic situation and depending on the outcome of the investigation, wrapping up the estate could take years. The length of time will depend on whether an heir is arrested for the murders, which postpones the process until the case is resolved. Though suspicion of a potential arrest in the future does not postpone the process.

See Shanaaz Eggington, Axe-Murder Kids in Line to Inherit R200m Estate, Press Reader, March 15, 2015.

Special thanks to Brian Cohan (Attorney at Law, Law Offices of Brian J. Cohan, P.C.) for bringing this case to my attention.