Man kills wife, drinks acid in failed suicide attempt

A man from Grootfontein is in critical condition after he reportedly stabbed his wife to death on Tuesday night before attempting to end his own life by drinking acid.

The man is currently receiving medical treatment at Katutura Intermediate Hospital in Windhoek, said Otjozondjupa police spokesperson, Senior Inspector Maureen Mbeha.

Mbeha said the incident happened at about 23:00 at Grootfontein’s Extension 5.

The deceased has been identified as Lizelda Xoagus (40), who worked as a radiographer at Grootfontein State Hospital.

Deadly fight

Neighbours said they heard the couple fighting and alerted the police.

However, when police officers arrived at the couple's home, the woman was already dead, having been stabbed multiple times with a kitchen knife.

The suspect allegedly also poured acid on her, resulting in severe burns.

"A preliminary investigation revealed that the couple had relationship problems,” Mbeha said.

She said it is further alleged that the husband, who is a well-known DSTV installer in town, then tried to kill himself by drinking the acid.

Mbeha said the suspect, aged 48, had sustained severe injuries by the time the police arrived.

He was transported to Grootfontein State Hospital and then to Windhoek, where he is being treated under a police guard.