What was meant to be a day of love and celebration turned into an unimaginable nightmare for a Heideveld mother after her son was murdered just minutes after calling her with plans for her birthday.
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A Birthday Shattered by Violence
Carol Fisher, a 47-year-old mother of five, had been looking forward to a special Sunday spent with her son Carlyle “Tan” Fisher. The 21-year-old had phoned her early that morning to share his plans for the day. He wanted to treat his mother to a homemade potjie and celebrate her birthday in style.
But just 15 minutes later, Carol received devastating news that would change her life forever—Carlyle had been shot and killed.
The shock and pain of that moment are still unbearable for Carol. “I’m broken… he loved me very much, he always stood behind me,” she said, speaking through tears.
A Son Who Loved Deeply
Carlyle, affectionately known as “Tan,” was the third eldest of Carol’s five children. Despite his young age, he played a strong fatherly role within the family after the passing of his father. His younger sisters adored him, often looking to him for guidance and protection
In the days leading up to his mother’s birthday, Carlyle had already shown his love and appreciation. He gifted Carol a brand-new pair of tekkies, insisting on spoiling her before her big day. According to her, he always reminded her: “ekke Tan is jou man.”
The Brutal Attack
Police confirmed that Carlyle’s life was cut short on the morning of 21 September. He was found with multiple gunshot wounds to the head on Robert Sobukwe Road in Bishop Lavis.
Authorities revealed that his belongings—including his bicycle, jewellery, cash, and the very tekkies he had bought—were stolen in the attack. The suspects fled immediately after, leaving the young man’s body behind.
Questions and Suspicions
Carol believes her son’s killing was not a random act of violence but rather a planned betrayal. She suspects that jealousy may have played a role, especially since Carlyle was known for staying out of gangsterism and focusing on bettering his life.
“He was not involved in gangs, he just took care of himself. I believe he was set up by people he trusted,” she said.
Her grief is mixed with frustration as she struggles to understand why anyone would want to harm her son, who was known for his kindness and devotion to family.
Family games
A Family Left Broken
The Fisher family is now left grappling with the void Carlyle’s death has created. His sisters, who looked up to him as a role model, are devastated, while Carol mourns the loss of her “pillar of strength.”
Their lives have been forever altered, with birthdays now carrying the painful reminder of loss instead of joy.
Call for Justice
Police have urged anyone with information about the crime to come forward. Community members can call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app to share information anonymously.
As the investigation continues, Carol and her children hold onto the hope that justice will be served for Carlyle “Tan” Fisher—a beloved son, brother, and protector whose life ended far too soon.
May he rest in peace.
