Metro FM news presenter Pearl Ntombifuthi Shongwe has died. Her family confirmed her “untimely passing” with “great sadness”.

“She passed away in her sleep,” her family said in a statement, adding that Shongwe (35) died in her Johannesburg home.

The family requested to be afforded privacy to mourn during this difficult time.

“Our daughter was a celebrated radio broadcaster and TV presenter. Her presence will forever live on in our hearts,” the statement continued.

Shongwe began her broadcasting career at YFM in 2010, and later moved the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), where she started as a sports presenter.

The public broadcaster has since sent words of comfort to the Shongwe family.

“The SABC has learned through the family of Pearl Shongwe that she has sadly passed away. The SABC extends its heartfelt condolences to the Shongwe Family.”