Trial Continues with Emotional Witness Accounts
On the second day of the Dirkler murder trial, the Gqeberha High Court heard deeply emotional testimonies from individuals who encountered young Krisley Dirkler just days before her death. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the disturbing nature of the allegations.
Mother and Stepfather on Trial for Child’s Death
Kristen and Robin Clarke, the mother and stepfather of the 19-month-old Krisley, are facing murder charges. The child died at Livingstone Hospital on 17 October 2013, a week after being admitted in a comatose state. The State accuses the couple of long-term abuse and of neglecting to get her urgent medical help.
Almost 12 years after the death of 19-month-old toddler, Krisley, her mother, Kristen Clarke, and stepfather, Robin Clarke, face charges of murder, child neglect and abuse, and failure to provide a child with medical care.
— Bianca van Wyk (@BiancavanWyk16) May 1, 2025
The toddler died in hospital from blunt force trauma to… pic.twitter.com/RMAC7So5OK
Witness Moved to Tears by Krisley’s Condition
Monty Uren, a witness for the State, gave a tearful testimony, describing the moment he saw Krisley in a visibly bruised and battered condition. He recalled the Clarkes arriving at his house to collect something from his wife. As he approached their car, he noticed the child looking severely injured.
He described her appearance as “horrible,” stating that the injuries he saw could only have resulted from physical violence. Uren said the image of Krisley took him back to painful memories of his own brother being abused during their time in an orphanage.
Efforts to Report Suspected Abuse
Troubled by what he had seen, Uren reached out to Krisley’s grandmother and informed her of his intentions to report the abuse. He then accompanied her to the Kabega Park police station to file a report.
When questioned by Kristen’s legal representative, Advocate Johan van der Spuy, Uren was told that his client denied the existence of the injuries he described. Uren firmly rejected the claim, calling it an outright lie.
Second Witness Confirms Shocking Scene
Karen Uren, Monty’s wife, also testified. She said she was horrified when she looked inside the car and saw Krisley. Kristen allegedly told her the child had fallen while visiting her grandmother and had already seen a doctor.
Karen described reaching out to touch Krisley’s feet and asking if she was sore. The child quietly replied, “eina”. Karen said the moment left such a strong impression on her that she continues to have flashbacks and was too emotionally shaken to attend Krisley’s funeral.
Witness Stands Firm Against Denials
During cross-examination, Van der Spuy claimed Kristen would deny ever visiting the Uren residence with Robin and Krisley. Karen strongly dismissed this version of events, asking what she would gain by lying. “I’m standing here for a little girl who can’t speak for herself anymore,” she said.
More Witnesses Expected as Trial Moves Forward
The day’s proceedings ended with testimony from a neighbor of Robin Clarke, who described him as troublesome. The Dirkler murder trial is scheduled to continue, with more witnesses expected to take the stand.
