A woman who sparked public outrage after allegedly throwing her dog from the third-floor balcony at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg has died, just weeks after the disturbing incident.
The event, which took place in November 2024, led to an investigation by the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) and law enforcement authorities. The dog sustained severe injuries from the fall and, despite efforts to save it, had to be euthanized.
Jacques Peacock, spokesperson for the NSPCA, confirmed that the woman passed away a few days after the incident. According to information received by the NSPCA, she died on November 25, 2024, at Thembisa Hospital. Reports suggest that she had been suffering from mental illness, which may have played a role in the tragic series of events.
Authorities launched an animal cruelty investigation through the South African Police Service (SAPS), but it remains unclear whether any legal action was pursued before her death.
The woman, a French national, had been traveling from France to Johannesburg with plans to continue to Brazil. She had purchased a ticket for her dog as an extra “passenger,” allowing the pet to accompany her on the flight to South Africa, where she arrived on November 6, 2024.
Surveillance footage from Airport Company South Africa (ACSA) reportedly captured her walking through the airport’s Atrium, with her small black dog running freely beside her. Moments later, she was seen picking up the dog and throwing it over the balcony.
Following the incident, authorities prevented her from boarding her flight to Brazil. Police confirmed that she was taken to a medical facility for evaluation and treatment.
The shocking nature of the act led to widespread condemnation from the public and animal rights organizations. While the exact circumstances surrounding her actions and subsequent death remain unclear, the case has highlighted concerns about mental health and animal welfare in high-stress travel environments.
