Wayne Westner, the South African professional golfer who spent a decade teaching the game in Ireland, died following a hostage situation in his home today.
The 55-year old Westner died as a result of a gunshot wound to the head. The incident occurred at his home in the Natal. The wife and children had apparently locked themselves in the bathroom.
The police spokesperson said officers received the call from the house.
"He allegedly wanted to see his wife and thereafter he allegedly shot himself. The firearm used in the commission of the crime was seized by the police.
An inquest has been opened after a man shot himself in front of his wife at Pennington area today. His body was removed to the KZN Medico-Legal Mortuary in Park Rynie for a postmortem examination."
There is an Irish dimension to this tragic story.
Westner lived in Ireland for a decade, setting up the Wayne Westner Academy at the Celbridge driving range in Kildare. Over one thousand golfers received lessons there.
He even appeared on a Breaking Ball slot in which he talked about DJ Carey's potential as a golfer.
He won two events on the European Tour, the Dubai Desert Classic in 1993 and the FNB Championship in 1996. He won 14 events across his professional career.
His first tour European win almost came in Killarney when he lost to Nick Faldo in a playoff in the 1992 Carroll's Irish Open. He later settled in Ireland over the following decade.
He won the World Cup of Golf for South Africa in 1996 alongside Ernie Els. His highest world ranking was 40th. He was forced to retire from golf following a freak injury in the 1998 Madeira Open.
Sad day, our friend Wayne Westner passed today. Great memories thank you my friend.
— Ernie Els (@TheBig_Easy) January 4, 2017
Vivienne, my family & I are saddened by the news of the tragic passing of Wayne Westner & send condolences to all his family & friends. RIP
— Gary Player (@garyplayer) January 4, 2017
WayneWestner;tormented golfing genius.Brilliant player with demons.Sad end for a more than decent colleague. Memories are better than finish
— Ewen Murray (@ewenmurray77) January 4, 2017
