Action Society says the forensic evidence presented in the murder trial of Charlene Pretorius leaves no room to minimise the brutality of her death or divert attention from the person accused of killing her.
The forensic pathologist who conducted Charlene’s postmortem examination testified in the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court this week that Charlene died as a result of burn injuries and multiple organ failure. The court heard that she suffered first- and second-degree burns to approximately 30% of her body, as well as injuries to her respiratory system caused by flame inhalation. The pathologist also identified signs consistent with possible blunt-force trauma.
During cross-examination, the defence raised several possible alternative causes of death, including delayed medical treatment, early liver cirrhosis and a vascular condition. The pathologist stood by her findings and testified that these factors did not alter the cause of death.
Charlene, a 42-year-old mother of three, was allegedly doused with petrol and set alight at her Pretoria North home on 27 May 2023. She later died in hospital from her injuries. Her teenage daughter was present during the incident.
Charlene’s husband, Stephan Pretorius, stands accused of her murder. Action Society has attended the proceedings in support of Charlene’s family and says Pretorius has shown no visible remorse in court.
“Charlene suffered an unimaginably cruel death, yet throughout these proceedings we have seen no visible indication of remorse from the man accused of killing her. Her family has been forced to sit in court and hear the horrific medical details of her final injuries while they continue waiting for justice,” says Juanita du Preez, national spokesperson for Action Society.
During their 16-year marriage, Charlene reportedly obtained several protection orders against Pretorius, which he allegedly violated repeatedly. She filed for divorce in February 2023 and obtained another protection order before her death.
“Charlene did what victims of domestic violence are repeatedly told to do. She approached the authorities, obtained protection orders and tried to leave the relationship. Those measures did not keep her safe. Her murder is a devastating reminder that a protection order has little value when violations are not met with immediate and decisive action,” says Du Preez.
Action Society has supported Charlene’s family and monitored the case since 2023. The organisation also deployed a private investigator to assist with the investigation and remains committed to supporting the family until the matter is concluded.
“We will continue standing with Charlene’s children and family. They deserve a justice process that does not lose sight of the woman whose life was taken and the lasting trauma inflicted on those who witnessed and survived this violence,” concludes Du Preez.
The trial is expected to continue on Friday, 4 September 2026, when the court will consider the admissibility of a statement.
Court: Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court
Next appearance: 4 September 2026
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