Jockey in court over brutal murder

THE HORSERACING fraternity is in shock following the brutal death of KwaZulu-Natal woman Janet Scott, 54, who was allegedly beaten to death by a former jockey last weekend.

The Scott family is wellknown in racing circles: Janet’s brother Rob Scott is head of horseracing television channel Tellytrack racing and Colin Scott is a racehorse trainer.

Described as a “gentle” and “sweet” person by many who knew her, Janet’s battered body was discovered by neighbours who called Hillcrest private investigator Brad Nathanson to the scene at a house close to the Shongweni Polo Club early last Saturday morning.

Nathanson described the crime scene as “horrific”.

“This has to rank in the top five most gruesome murders I have ever seen. Approximately six hours post mortem, there was blood from one end to the other in that place,” he said.

The former jockey, Graham Gregorski, believed to be in his late 20s and also well-known in racing circles, was arrested at the scene. He appeared in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on a charge of murder on Monday.

He was remanded to Westville Prison and will be back in court on Wednesday for a formal bail application.

On Thursday, Rob Scott said he had been in Cape Town when he received the call from his brother about the murder.

“As a family we are struggling to comprehend how this could happen. Janet was a teacher who left teaching and worked in the stock market. She was a clever girl with a very soft heart.

“She moved to Durban about a year ago as she wanted to be closer to my dad.” He added that his sister’s 25-yearold daughter was due to be getting married soon and that Janet had been looking forward to the wedding.

“I could only identify Janet by the tattoos on her stomach, she had been so badly beaten,” he said.

Rob Scott attended the accused’s first appearance.

Private investigator Hein- rich Schwarz, who will assist with the investigation of the circumstances surrounding Janet’s death, said yesterday: “This is a very sensitive case. I am investigating it further and am working closely with SAPS in this regard.”

KZN SAPS spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Thulani Zwane would say only: “A case of murder is still under investigation.”

The accused’s mother arrived in Durban during the week and confirmed she had been to Westville Prison to see her son.

“My family’s condolences to the Scott family. We as a family are mourning the loss of a very good friend, Janet,” she said.

Yesterday, Gold Circle Horseracing chief executive Michel Nairac said: “It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Janet Scott last Saturday.

“We send our deepest condolences to Rob, Colin and the entire Scott family at this very difficult time.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”

tanya.waterworth@inl.co.za