Mandela's Great-Granddaughter Killed

June 13, 2010

Nelson Mandela, the first president of the democratic republic of South Africa, who is 91, forewent Friday's World Cup opening ceremony in South Africa after tragedy struck his family. His great-granddaughter was killed in a car crash.

Zenani Mandela, 13, was killed on the way home from Thursday night's pre-tournament concert in Soweto, where tens of thousands of people sang and danced with pop stars including Shakira and the Black Eyed Peas.

The day his nation was celebrating one of the most historic achievements, Mandela remained in private morning.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation said the tragedy "made it inappropriate" for the former president to attend the opening ceremony in Johannesburg.

"We are sure that South Africans and people all over the world will stand in solidarity with Mr. Mandela and his family in the aftermath of this tragedy," the foundation said.

Johannesburg Metro police spokeswoman Edna Mamonyane said the driver of the car had been arrested and charged with drunk driving. He could be facing homicide charges.

"The Metro police found that he was drunk," Mamonyane said. "He lost control of the vehicle and it collided with a barricade."

Police spokesman Govindsamy Mariemuthoo, who earlier said the driver would appear in court for a preliminary hearing Friday, said it had been postponed for more investigations, and that the driver was not being held.

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