Emalahleni, Mpumalanga (BN24) — Two young women who were severely burned in a violent domestic attack in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga, have died after spending over a week in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The tragic incident, which occurred on July 23, 2025, has led to murder charges against the alleged perpetrator, Mpumelelo Ignitus Hills.
Nompumelelo Gumede, 21, and Antoinette Mbali Hills, 23, were both doused with petrol and set alight during a violent dispute between Nompumelelo and her boyfriend, Mpumelelo Hills, 35. The attack occurred in the midst of an argument over suspicions of infidelity. According to reports, Antoinette, who is also Mpumelelo’s biological sister, attempted to intervene but was tragically caught in the flames.
The two women were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they were admitted to ICU in critical condition. Sadly, after days of battling their injuries, Antoinette passed away on Friday, August 1, 2025, followed by Nompumelelo on Sunday morning, August 3, 2025.
Mpumelelo Hills was initially arrested and charged with two counts of attempted murder. He appeared briefly in Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court on July 30, 2025, where his case was postponed to August 7, 2025. Following the victims’ deaths, authorities confirmed that the charges against him have now been upgraded to two counts of murder.
The tragic events have shocked the local community and raised concerns over escalating domestic violence in the region. Mpumalanga police have vowed to pursue justice for the victims and are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack.
