Family rallies outside court demanding justice for slain Hawston man

Three men accused of murdering Hawston resident James Henn appeared in court on Monday, with his family demanding justice for the brutal killing. The accused men, Nathaniel Maneuls, Graham Gardner, and Denaleo Martin, briefly addressed the court before the matter was adjourned to 26 November for a formal bail hearing.

James Henn, 28, was stabbed to death in Nasson Street, Hawston, shortly after 11pm on Friday, 2 October. According to a police spokesperson, Hermanus police registered the case as murder following an alleged argument between Henn and the suspects that turned violent. Henn was reportedly stabbed in the neck and pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.

Henn's family, particularly his father, is devastated by the loss of their youngest son. His father admitted that he is struggling to cope with the tragedy and is desperate for answers about why his life was cut short. His aunt, Gertrude Henn, shared his feelings, stating that their family has been deeply shaken by the incident. She recounted how James had become increasingly withdrawn since the tragedy and expressed her brother's biggest question: why his son was not allowed to defend himself.

Gertrude Henn provided a detailed account of the events leading up to the murder, explaining that James was on his way to visit friends when he was attacked. She emphasized that the three men were looking for trouble and that James was not one to get into trouble. The family gathered outside the court on Monday, united in their quest for justice for their loved one.

The three accused men are scheduled to return to the Hermanus Magistrates’ Court on 26 November for their formal bail application.