The community of Belhar is saddened and angered after Lauren Kennedy, 25, was shot and killed shortly after dropping off two children at the Riebeekstraat Primary School on Friday morning.
Also Read: Body of a 14-year-old girl found hanging in a yard in Retreat
According to reports by Police spokesperson, Sergeant Wesley Twigg, the victim was walking with her boyfriend in Die Braak Square, Belhar at the time of the shooting, her boyfriend managed to escape once the suspects opened fire, fatally wounding Kennedy.
In a statement as reported by News24, Western Cape education department spokesperson Bronagh Hammond has sent officials to the Riebeekstraat Primary School to provide the necessary counselling support to teachers and pupils.
Hammond said, “I unfortunately and sadly can confirm that there was a shooting incident, allegedly gang-related, outside the school on Friday morning. Tragically, a mother taking her Grade 1 and 4 children to school was allegedly shot by a stray bullet and sadly succumbed to her injuries.”
Belhar ward councillor, Willie Japhta has stressed the urgency to introduce ongoing raids in an effort to remove guns from the community.
No arrests were made but a murder case is currently being investigated. Anyone with any information about this shooting incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Our deepest condolences to the loved ones of Lauren Kennedy.
Also Read:
Picture: Facebook