Morbid - Episode 656: The Attempted Murder of Alison Botha

Released on March 20, 2025 by Morbid Network | Wondery

Introduction

In Episode 656 of Morbid, hosts Elena and Ash delve deep into the harrowing story of Alison Botha, a woman whose resilience and determination exemplify the human spirit's capacity to overcome unimaginable adversity. This detailed recounting not only highlights the brutality of her attempted murder but also her remarkable survival and unwavering strength in the face of relentless trauma.

Alison Botha's Early Life

Alison Botha was born on September 22, 1967, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, to parents Brian and Claire Collier. Despite her parents' divorce in 1977, Alison and her brother Neil were raised in a loving environment by their mother, who instilled in them a profound sense of self-worth. Alison's headmistress at Collegiate High School described her as "a mature young woman of the utmost integrity and sound moral values" ([09:32] Ash).

During her senior year in 1985, Alison was unexpectedly honored as head girl—a testament to her character and leadership. However, despite this achievement, she felt uncertain about her future, acknowledging, "I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life" ([10:00] Ash). With her mother's encouragement, she pursued a secretarial course, leading her to a fulfilling career as an insurance broker by her mid-20s.

The Night of the Attack

On the evening of December 18, 1994, Alison planned a casual gathering with friends at the beach in Port Elizabeth. The evening was filled with laughter, pizza, and board games, embodying a typical, spontaneous friend hangout. However, as midnight approached, Alison's night took a sinister turn.

Returning home after promising her friend Kim a ride, Alison circled her neighborhood searching for a parking spot. Frustrated by the closed lot near her apartment, she settled for a darker, more isolated spot farther away ([12:58] Ash). As she entered her vehicle to gather clean laundry, Alison was abruptly confronted by a tall, scrawny man with light blonde hair wielding a knife. He swiftly pressed the blade to her throat, commanding, "Move over or I'll kill you" ([13:43] Ash).

The Ordeal of Survival

Under the knife's threat, Alison complied, sliding into the passenger seat as her assailant took control of the vehicle. The attacker, who identified himself as Clinton (later revealed to be Franz Dutoit), confessed a disturbing motive: he needed Alison's car to locate and retrieve money owed by a friend who had stolen his TV ([15:25] Ash).

As Clinton drove them away from her neighborhood into unfamiliar, wooded areas, a second man, Tian Kruger, joined the assault. Ellis described the attackers' methodical cruelty: they brutally stabbed Alison multiple times—16 times to her throat and over 50 in her abdomen—resulting in nearly decapitated neck wounds and exposed intestines ([26:14] Ash).

Despite the severity of her injuries, Alison's extraordinary will to survive kicked in. She played dead, a strategic move that allowed her to survive the initial assault. As her attackers momentarily lost interest, Alison seized the moment to free herself from the immediate threat. Summoning unimaginable strength, she tied her intestines with her shirt to prevent further damage and crawled toward the main road, enduring excruciating pain and blood loss ([35:58] Ash).

Rescue and Medical Miracle

Just as Alison despaired, believing she might perish alone on the road, Tian Kruger stumbled upon her. Recognizing the gravity of her situation, he provided immediate assistance. Tian, a veterinary student, applied life-saving measures—repositioning her thyroid and applying pressure to her wounds—to stabilize her before the arrival of EMTs ([53:00] Ash).

Alison was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Dr. Volodya Angelov, the attending surgeon, marveled at her survival, stating, "I've seen many injuries as a doctor, but the severe cruelty of the wounds really shocked me" ([55:52] Ash). Her recovery was nothing short of miraculous, considering the extensive nature of her injuries, including a nearly severed neck and exposed intestines.

Legal Aftermath and Continued Struggles

Alison's attackers, Franz Dutoit and Tions Kruger, were apprehended following detailed police investigations. Initially facing life sentences without the possibility of parole, changes in South African law in 2012 threatened to alter their custody status. Determined to prevent their release, Alison became an outspoken advocate for justice, successfully delaying their parole applications for another decade ([65:14] Ash).

However, in the summer of 2023, both men were released on parole despite Alison's relentless efforts. This shockingly premature release forced Alison to confront ongoing fears for her safety and the well-being of society at large. The emotional toll was immense, culminating in her suffering a massive brain aneurysm in September 2024. Despite this new medical emergency, Alison's indomitable spirit persisted as she continued her arduous journey of recovery ([74:00] Ash).

A Symbol of Resilience and Hope

Throughout her recovery, Alison focused on healing both physically and emotionally. She became a beacon of hope for many, particularly young women in South Africa who had faced similar traumas. Alison emphasized the importance of self-worth and resilience, reflecting on her mother's early lessons: "You must know that you are special and value yourself. It's what got me through my attack" ([68:45] Ash).

In 1997, Alison found love again, marrying Teeny Botha and defying medical expectations by giving birth to two children despite her severe abdominal injuries. Her ability to rebuild her life, even after her attackers' heinous crimes and her subsequent health struggles, underscores her extraordinary strength and capacity for forgiveness.

Conclusion

Alison Botha's story, as recounted in Morbid Episode 656, is a profound testament to human resilience and the enduring will to survive. Despite enduring horrific violence and facing immense personal challenges, Alison transformed her trauma into a narrative of empowerment and advocacy. Her journey inspires countless individuals to find strength in the darkest of times and highlights the critical importance of unwavering support systems and justice.

Notable Quotes:

• Alison Botha on Self-Worth: "You must know that you are special and value yourself. It's what got me through my attack." ([68:45] Ash)

• Dr. Volodya Angelov on Alison's Survival: "I've seen many injuries as a doctor, but the severe cruelty of the wounds really shocked me." ([55:52] Ash)

• Alison on Choice and Resilience: "The one thing I do have control over is choice. I have the freedom to choose how I will respond to it. I have the choice to make of it what I must and learn from it." ([67:31] Ash)

Supporting Alison's Recovery

Alison's ongoing medical needs have placed a significant financial strain on her family, as she lacks medical insurance and has accrued substantial debt from her surgeries and treatments. The Morbid team urges listeners to support Alison and her family through a fundraiser set up at backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-Allison-Botha-in-her-time-of-need. Contributions can be made in both South African Rand and US Dollars, ensuring flexibility for international donors.

Donate Here: backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-Allison-Botha-in-her-time-of-need

Final Thoughts

Alison Botha's story is not just one of survival but also of triumph over insurmountable odds. Her unwavering determination to reclaim her life and support others facing similar traumas serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to heal and inspire. As Morbid concludes, listeners are left with a profound respect for Alison's courage and a call to support her ongoing journey towards healing and advocacy.

Stay tuned for more riveting true crime stories on Morbid, where horror meets resilience.