Trial date set in Chesney Keppler murder case as family seeks closure

The murder trial of Gauteng traffic warden, Chesney Keppler, has been set down for April.

The Johannesburg High Court has scheduled the trial of former police constable Mandla Buthelezi, who is accused of killing Keppler in Eldorado Park, to run from 14 to 17 April.

Buthelezi, 43, appeared in court on Tuesday alongside his co-accused, Llewellyn Meyers, where the state confirmed it is ready to proceed with the trial.

Keppler was fatally shot on Boxing Day in 2024, following what the state alleges was a domestic dispute. Prosecutors say Buthelezi fired multiple shots from his service pistol through a house window before fleeing the scene.

Meyers faces charges of attempted murder of witnesses and defeating the ends of justice, and remains out on bail. Buthelezi will remain in police custody until the start of the trial.

State prosecutor, Maphile Molefe, told the court the matter has been set down for four days, adding that discussions are under way to make certain admissions in an effort to reduce the number of witnesses expected to testify.

Outside court, the Keppler family welcomed the setting of a trial date, saying it brings them a step closer to justice after months of repeated court appearances.

Chesney Keppler’s father, Trevor Keppler, described the prolonged court process as deeply painful, saying each appearance forces the family to relive the trauma of her death.

He however raised concerns about alleged delays in the investigation, questioning why some officers who were involved on the day of his daughter’s killing have not yet been charged, more than a year later.

Despite his frustrations, Keppler thanked the Eldorado Park community for its continued support, saying it has helped the family endure what he described as the most difficult period of their lives.

The family says it hopes the upcoming trial will finally allow them space to heal, as they continue to seek accountability for Chesney Keppler’s death.

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe