Closure for EL family after years of anguish

SIX years after the murder of Howard Jegels in Buffalo Flats his family are finally finding closure now that the five convicted of the brutal slaying have been brought to book.

Romano Lyons, his uncle George Lyons, Leonard Scheepers, Reagan King and Alcino Jegels (no relation to the victim) – all from Parkside – have been served with notices to report to the clerk of the court within three working days.

The five bludgeoned their victim to death with knobkieries, baseball bats and a broken pool cue before driving a car over his body.

Speaking to the Jegels family at their Buffalo Flats home, the investigating officer on the case, Captain Vaughn Peterson, said notices had been served to each of the five giving them until Tuesday to hand themselves over to the police.

“I was really impressed when handing these men their letters. They are taking full responsibility for their actions and their attitudes were positive. They have all agreed to hand themselves over to the Clerk of the Court on Monday,” he said.

“If they do not do it by Tuesday, on Wednesday a warrant of arrest will be issued on grounds of contempt of court and their bail will be forfeited.”

Each will serve 10 years imprisonment with the exception of Leonard Scheepers and Alcino Jegels, who will serve seven years.

Co-accused Ismal Sass was acquitted of the murder, but convicted of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm and sentenced to a fine.

Shawn Lyons, brother to George , said it had been a sad and difficult day for the family.

“ Sunday will be the last time we spend with my brother as they have agreed to all hand themselves over on Monday,” he said. “It would be inhumane for us not to feel anything and we do feel bad. I guess they had a strong team and people on their side. If we spoke in terms of sport, they beat us hands down.”

Widow Loretta Jegels yesterday told the Saturday Dispatch that she was relieved that justice has finally taken its course.

“I am glad and satisfied with the justice system. At least something is finally happening,” she said.

Karen Hendricks, Howard’s sister, spoke on behalf of the family: “We thank the community, the Buffalo Flats police and Captain Peterson for all the work that has been done.

“I am glad that, in the end, a positive result came from it. I just hope, especially for these young boys, that positivity comes from this. It doesn’t bring Howard back and it’s brought devastation to the family but we’re just glad it’s over.” —