Former Teacher Admits to Drowning Boyfriend’s Daughter

Natalie Nyathi

Amber Lee Hughes, a 25-year-old former preschool teacher, has confessed to killing her ex-boyfriend’s four-year-old daughter, Nada-Jane Chalita. This shocking admission was made during a recent court appearance in the Johannesburg High Court, more than two years after the child’s death in January 2023.

Hughes, who initially pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and rape, now admits she drowned the little girl in a bathtub at their apartment. Her lawyer, Marius Bower, explained that Hughes’s actions were triggered by a heated argument with Elie Chalita, Nada-Jane’s father, over his alleged cheating. After the argument, Hughes filled the bathtub with cold water and sat on the child, submerging her until she drowned. She admits her actions were wrong and that she meant to drown Nada-Jane.

Hughes claims she has a borderline personality disorder and tried to harm herself after the incident. While she admits to drowning the girl, she denies the rape allegations, saying she did not hurt the child in that way.

Elie Chalita, the girl’s father, has spoken about his pain and desire for justice, questioning how his daughter suffered before her death. He had enrolled Nada-Jane in Hughes’s preschool, and the two began a romantic relationship. Hughes moved in with Elie and Nada-Jane, but their relationship was often troubled with many arguments.

The National Prosecuting Authority has confirmed Hughes’s confession and the details of the crime. The case will continue on August 7 for closing arguments, where more information is expected to come out. Hughes remains in custody.

The tragic death of Nada-Jane has sparked outrage and calls for better protection for vulnerable children.