A routine afternoon in Valhalla Park was shattered when gunfire rang out at a busy intersection, leaving a young girl injured and a community once again grappling with the reality of violence spilling into everyday life.
According to the Cape Argus, the incident unfolded on Saturday, January 3, at around 3:20pm, at the corner of Matthew and Andrews streets.
Police confirmed that the 12-year-old girl was struck during a shooting linked to an attempted robbery targeting a bread delivery vehicle. She was rushed to hospital in a private car and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Details by the Cape Argus indicate that the child was not the intended target but was caught in the crossfire when suspects opened fire on the delivery truck.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said officers from Bishop Lavis responded swiftly after receiving reports of a shooting in the area.
‘Bishop Lavis police responded to a complaint of a shooting on Saturday afternoon, January 3 at about 15:20, on the corner of Matthew and Andrew Streets, Valhalla Park,’ Twigg said.
‘Upon arrival on the scene the police were informed that a 12-year-old girl was caught in the crossfire when unknown suspects opened fire on a bread delivery vehicle.’
According to police, the suspects fled the scene before officers arrived. A nearby private vehicle was also damaged during the shooting.
‘According to reports the victim was transported to a medical facility in a private vehicle where she is receiving treatment,’ Twigg added.
Detectives have since opened an attempted murder case and are continuing investigations.
‘Bishop Lavis detectives are investigating an attempted murder case,’ Twigg confirmed.
In the aftermath of the shooting, crime prevention organisations voiced concern over the continued exposure of children to violent crime. Fight Against Crime SA (FACSA) described the incident as deeply troubling for the wider community.
‘FACSA is deeply saddened and outraged by the shooting of a 10-year-old girl in Matthew Street, Valhalla Park. No child should ever be caught in the crossfire of violence,’ the organisation stated.
‘Our thoughts and prayers are with the young victim and her family during this incredibly traumatic time. We pray for her strength, healing and a full recovery.’
FACSA further called for swift action from law enforcement and the justice system.
‘We strongly condemn this shooting in the harshest terms. This was a senseless act that has shaken the community and once again highlights how innocent lives continue to pay the price for violence.’
The organisation urged residents to assist investigators, stressing that community cooperation remains key in cases where suspects remain at large.
‘To the community of Valhalla Park: your pain is seen, and your silence speaks volumes. We urge anyone with information to come forward so that justice can be served.’
Police have appealed to anyone who may have information related to the shooting to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or to submit tips anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application.
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