Pretoria Man Sentenced To Life For Brutal Double Murder Of Family Members

The Pretoria High Court has sentenced Raymond Steven Jan-Erick Smith, 37 of Proclamation Hill, to two life terms for the brutal murders of Grant and Heidi Cantello, along with additional sentences for attempted murder and attempted robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The sentences will run concurrently with life imprisonment.

The court also ruled Smith unfit to possess a firearm. On 23 July 2025, the NPA’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) obtained a preservation order against his 2011 Nissan X-Trail, valued at R65,000, which was used during the crimes.

Deadly Attack on Elderly Couple’s Home

Smith targeted the property of elderly couple Gerald Cantello, 74, and Lilian Janson, 71, after spotting their R2.7 million home listed online. The listing showcased electronics, which caught his attention. Posing as a buyer, Smith visited the property three times in January 2025.

On his third visit, he violently attacked the couple, binding and gagging them. When their son Grant Cantello, 47, and his wife Heidi, 47, rushed in to help, Smith fatally stabbed them.

A 16-year-old boy, Grant’s son, was also stabbed but managed to escape and call for help. Smith fled but was arrested the following day while attempting to wash bloodstained clothes.

Court Rejects Plea for Leniency

Although Smith pleaded guilty and asked for leniency, the court ruled otherwise. Advocate Lawrance More argued successfully for life imprisonment, stressing that the murders were premeditated and carried out in a home where the victims should have felt safe.

The court also reviewed Victim Impact Statements. The teenage survivor described emotional trauma that forced him to change schools, while Mr Cantello remains immobile after spending three weeks in hospital.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Seven Arrested In Cape Winelands For Running Illegal Alcohol Manufacturing Facility

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Marika Jansen Van Vuuren, praised the prosecution team, saying their dedication ensured justice for the victims.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky