SA: Afrikaans singer killed in car accident

According to a statement, the Port Elizabeth-born singer was travelling alone when the accident occurred.

"Jacques De Coning passed away in a motor vehicle accident this morning, Sunday, 9 June 2019,” it reads. “The accident happened around 10:30am between Alexandria and Bushmans River in the Eastern Cape. Jacques was alone in the vehicle when the collision occurred with another vehicle.

"His humanity and humbleness will forever live on in the lives of his family, friends and beloved fans."

Messages of condolences are still pouring on social media.

“I learnt a lot from you when I was I young man starting off my adult working career and I was lucky enough to spend a lot of time with the De Conings and Besters in my youth as well,” a fan wrote on Facebook. “My heart goes out to Lynn, Joani, Basil and Rochelle. Sending all my love and light to the whole family down in the Eastern Cape.”

A friend also wrote: "I actually cannot believe you are gone. Thank you for the music, thank you for your support. Joani de Coning and Lynn de Coning, I am so sorry for your loss and remember that I love the both of you so much.”

Jacques de Coning began his career in 1998 by writing a song for the Griquas Rugby Team. He became popular following the 2002 release of his Afrikaans My Trots album, which achieved gold status after selling more than 100,000 copies. Some of his songs include ‘Girl Van Die Kleinkaroo’, ‘Die Grootvoel Medley’ and ‘Bokke Bo!’

News about Conin's death came at a time when South Africans are still mourning the passing of house artist Nichume Siwundla, who was found dead at a friend’s house on Friday following a suspected suicide.