The family of the American tourist who lost his life in a stabbing incident at a backpackers’ hostel in Green Point is reaching out for support to repatriate his remains.
Phillips Allen-Bakare (23), was fatally attacked a week ago at Atlantic Point backpackers, reportedly by his roommate. Initially visiting Cape Town with a church group, Phillips extended his stay after their departure.
Also read: American citizen stabbed to death at Green Point backpackers
The fatal altercation occurred last Friday in the hostel’s kitchen, resulting in Phillips being stabbed three times with a kitchen knife.
Gedeon Tshimowa (27) was arrested on Friday and appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday, facing a charge of murder. The two had been sharing accommodation.
The victim’s family has initiated a fundraising effort through a GoFundMe page, appealing to the public for assistance in covering the $25,000 (approximately R473,973.75) expenses associated with repatriating Phillips’ body to the United States.
Tokunbo Allen-Bakare, Philips’ sister penned a heartfelt message on the fundraising page, describing the family’s profound loss and Phillips’ spiritual calling to engage in missionary work in South Africa.
Allen-Bakare’s message read:’Greetings everyone! Our family is currently suffering a huge loss. On February 9th my brother, Phillips Allen-Bakare was murdered in South Africa by his roommate at the age of 23 years old. My brother was called by the Lord to do missionary work in South Africa.
‘The morning of February 9th Phillips was playing gospel music and his roommate complained of it being “too loud” which started an argument. Phillips retreated to the kitchen in the shared space to prepare some food and the roommate followed. When the roommate entered the kitchen, retrieved a knife and stabbed Phillips three times.
‘This news has devastated our family. Phillips is the eldest male child of our family and the rock of our family. He was on a journey to get closer to God and wanted to preach the word to people. He received many revelations from the Lord which inspired his journey to South Africa. He wanted everyone to know that God is real and he loves us.
‘My brother’s body is still in South Africa and we are currently asking for donations to help us get him from South Africa so that we can give him justice and say our goodbyes peacefully. We need to raise money to be able to retain my brother, any donation is greatly appreciated.’
The case has been adjourned until 27 February for bail considerations.
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Suspect accused of murdering US citizen tried to escape custody
Picture: Social Media