A devastating mass shooting in Elsies River has left the community reeling after two teenage boys were fatally wounded and a 12-year-old girl and her 63-year-old grandmother were injured. The incident occurred on Wednesday at approximately 7:40pm on the corner of Bourne Road and Kriebos Link in the Leonsdale area.
According to eyewitnesses, a vehicle stopped in Francie van Zyl Drive and the suspects made their way to a house shop where they opened fire. Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said Elsies River police registered two counts of murder and two attempted murders following the shooting.
Investigation Underway
Two boys aged 16 and 19 were shot and fatally wounded, while the 12-year-old girl sustained gunshot wounds to the hip and thigh and the 63-year-old grandmother sustained gunshot wounds to her stomach. The injured victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation and arrests are yet to be made.
The motive for the attack is believed to be gang-related, according to the police. Valhalla Park High School issued a statement condemning the senseless violence that took away the lives of two young boys. The school extended their heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased.
Community Reaction
The Elsies River Community Policing Forum (CPF) expressed their deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the young lives that were tragically lost. The CPF also wished to extend their support to those who were injured and transported to hospital, hoping and praying for their full and speedy recovery.
For more information on the incident, residents can visit the South African Police Service website. The gang violence epidemic in South Africa is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address.
- Two teenage boys were fatally wounded in the shooting
- A 12-year-old girl and her 63-year-old grandmother were injured
- The incident occurred in the Leonsdale area of Elsies River
- The motive for the attack is believed to be gang-related
