Police Confirm Inquest, No Foul Play Suspected
Cape Town Central police have opened a formal inquest following the death of South African midfielder Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered at a premises on Military Road, Schotsche Kloof, on July 11, 2026. Police spokesperson Frederick C. van Wyk confirmed that authorities do not suspect foul play. “No foul play is suspected. Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation. Investigations continue,” van Wyk said, according to Briefly. The 25-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana star was found at 11:06am. Police have urged the public to avoid speculation while the inquest remains open.
Father Reveals Financial and Emotional Struggles
Adams’ father, Juanito, has provided insight into the pressures his son faced before his death. According to Juanito, ongoing financial tension and personal grief weighed heavily on Adams. The footballer regularly gave money to his parents and contributed to the upkeep of his girlfriend Aqueelah Adendorf’s family, despite limited experience managing large sums. On the day of his death, Adams argued with Adendorf after a night out at an Athlone nightclub, with the dispute continuing at his Cape Town apartment, where she was unhappy about the arrival of his friends. Juanito added that Adams was also grieving the recent death of his grandmother, Marianna, and the stabbing of his Sundowns teammate Oshwin Andries.
Hours before his death, Adams called his father from his Bo-Kaap apartment and said he could no longer cope. Juanito rushed from his Cloetesville home and found that Adams had died by hanging in the bathroom. Two public memorial services were held at the Stellenbosch town hall on July 17, where the family declined to comment.
Sports Minister Condemns Media Coverage
South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, publicly criticized media outlets for reporting details of Adams’ final hours, particularly an article based on information first published by Rapport. Writing on X, McKenzie stated: “This is irresponsible reporting. Do you want the young lady now to take her own life? Do you want her child to blame her for the passing of his dad? You are truly a tabloid; this country needs serious newspapers for sure. Let's allow the police to do their job.” The article included claims from a family member that Adams and Adendorf had a disagreement after banking notifications appeared on her phone, and that they later reconciled before his death.
Funeral Preparations Underway
Adams’ family is beginning to arrange his funeral as the football community mourns the loss of a promising talent. The 25-year-old midfielder had represented both Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team, leaving a legacy cut short. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death, and the inquest remains open.
