Family of victim in ‘shock’ as murder-accused cricketer gets bail

On Thursday, Tristan Perez – a well-known local club cricketer who is charged with the murder of 46-year-old Elana Brooke – appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court for his bail application.

Despite strong opposition from the State, the 24-year-old was ultimately granted bail at a nominal fee of R5000, with the magistrate ruling that Perez demonstrated sufficient ties to the community and did not pose a flight risk.

Prosecutors argued that Perez should remain behind bars, having previously been arrested after police suspected his involvement in the alleged murder of Brooke after what was believed to be a heated argument.

Brooke’s ex-husband and family spokesperson, David Brooke, said the family had been left in shock by the bail decision.

“Sitting in court today and hearing the fact that he got bail at such a low bail with no conditions was a massive shock to the family. We weren’t expecting that.

“We are very upset as a family.”

Tristan Perez now awaits next court date

No trial date has been set yet, but the next court date is only expected to be at the beginning of June.

Previously, police officials said that Perez was taken into custody at the scene without incident, and a thorough investigation has been undertaken ever since he was arrested.

Police had suspected foul play when examining the scene and after finding a a phone recording of a heated argument, which accelerated suspicions that it ended with the tragic killing of Brooke, allegedly by strangulation.

‘Justice must be served’

Earlier this week, Brooke said there has been an outpouring of support since the incident that was upgraded to a murder case.

“The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out with messages of support, condolences and shared memories of our beloved and full of love and life, Elana.

“The matter is now a criminal investigation, and we have full confidence in the South African Police Service and the judicial system to ensure that justice is served.”

Perez has been a mainstay in Cape Town’s club cricket scene for several years.

According to the Club Cricket website, Perez had just recently scored a record-breaking double century for Claremont Cricket Club’s second XI, smashing 237 runs off 113 balls.