Former South African football player Shaun Mogaila, 29, has pleaded guilty to causing a fatal crash in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni, in October 2024. The crash occurred on Andrew Mapheto Road in Tembisa in the early hours of October 30, 2024. Mogaila admitted that the vehicle he was driving veered into oncoming traffic and collided with a car occupied by Keo Mavimbela, her daughter Gomolemo, and a 13-year-old neighbour.
Gomolemo Mavimbela, 9, died in the crash, while her mother and the teenager were hospitalised for two months. Suspected cocaine, edibles, and bottles of Don Julio tequila were found in Mogaila's vehicle following the crash. He fled the scene before handing himself over to police later that day. Mogaila appeared before the Tembisa Magistrate's Court on Tuesday and pleaded guilty to culpable homicide and failure to render assistance.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed Mogaila's guilty plea and conviction. NPA spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole said Mogaila entered the plea in terms of Section 112(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act. In his plea statement, Mogaila admitted to all the elements of the offences and accepted the facts and allegations presented by the State.
The court subsequently convicted Mogaila on all charges following his guilty plea. The NPA said the conviction represents an important step towards justice for the deceased child and her family. The authority remains committed to ensuring accountability for individuals whose unlawful and reckless actions result in death or serious injury.
Prosecutors will continue to pursue justice on behalf of victims while safeguarding the constitutional rights of accused persons and upholding the principles of due process. The matter has been postponed to November 17 for sentencing proceedings. Mogaila's guilty plea spares the victims and their family the emotional burden of a lengthy trial.
The case drew attention due to Mogaila's status as a PSL star and former Sekhukhune FC player. His bail of R20,000 sparked outrage from the victim's family after the fatal crash. The family demanded justice and called for Mogaila to be jailed for his role in the crash.
The guilty plea and conviction bring closure to the case, but the impact of the crash will be felt by the victims' family for a long time. Mogaila's sentencing on November 17 will be a crucial step in finalising the case. The community and football fraternity have been following the case closely, awaiting the final outcome.
Key points
- Shaun Mogaila pleaded guilty to culpable homicide and failure to render assistance.
- The crash resulted in the death of 9-year-old Gomolemo Mavimbela and injured her mother and a 13-year-old neighbour.
- Mogaila's sentencing is set for November 17.
