Woman found dead in North Ruimveldt canal was psychiatric patient — Mother tells Police

January 20 2026

Police are awaiting post-mortem results into the death of a 39-year-old woman whose body was discovered in a canal at North Ruimveldt on Sunday, January 18.

The woman has been identified as Treena De Weever, also known to residents as “Samantha.” Her mother informed investigators that De Weever was a psychiatric patient.

Residents of the community said De Weever was the mother of three children—two boys and a girl—and lived in a squatting area with her reputed husband.

A close friend told BIG Smith News Watch that she last saw De Weever at about 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, and noted that she appeared depressed at the time.

According to residents, De Weever was often under the influence of alcohol and, on occasion, would lose her balance while crossing a bridge leading to her home. They recalled instances where she fell into a nearby trench and was assisted by members of the community.

De Weever’s body was found around 10:00 a.m. on Sunday in a canal near Lamaha Springs and Barbie Dam. The canal is reportedly connected to the trench she crossed on her way home.

Police said the woman was found lying face down and had visible marks on her body. Investigations are continuing as authorities await the results of the post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.