Published by on

Update: 16 October 2024

A suspect linked to the shooting of a Chinese national at Howard Centre in Pinelands was found dead in Observatory just hours after the incident, Cape {town} Etc reports.

The body of an unidentified man was found inside a white Toyota Starlet at St Peter’s Square on Monday night, less than two hours after he and three others allegedly attacked a Chinese national near the Howard Centre library.

Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, confirmed the body and vehicle were linked to the earlier attempted murder and robbery of the 62 year old.

‘It is alleged that the unknown deceased was one of four assailants who fled the scene after their failed attempt.’

‘Seemingly, the deceased was shot during the scuffle with the Chinese victim,’ added Pojie.

Woodstock police opened an inquest, while Pinelands police are investigating attempted murder.

Update: 5:30pm

SAPS spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, has confirmed that Pinelands police have opened an attempted murder docket following a shooting incident which occurred near the library at the back of the Howard Centre, Cape {town} Etc reports.

‘Pinelands police opened an attempted murder docket for further investigation following a shooting incident which occurred near the library at the back of the Howard Centre earlier today, Monday, 14 October at about 15:15 during which a 62 year old Chinese national was hit in the chest.’

‘Preliminary information reveals that the male victim was accosted by four unknown suspects who attempted to rob him from a black bag, later found to be containing documents and a laptop, when a scuffle ensued.’

‘It is reported that several shots were fired in the direction of the victim with one bullet hitting him in the chest.’

‘The victim was hospitalised for medical treatment.’

Pojie adds that the assailants fled the scene empty handed  and are yet to be arrested.

A shooting occurred earlier today at Howard Centre in Pinelands, which resulted in heavily backed-up traffic, Cape {town} Etc reports.

Also read: Body of missing Cape Town teen found with multiple gunshots

A report of a shooting incident came in on a local crime and traffic group at 3:39pm on Monday, asking residents approach the area with caution.

According to some media reports, a person has been fatally shot.

This has yet to be confirmed; Cape {town} Etc has reached out to SAPS for confirmation.

Locals have been urged to avoid the mall area at this time due to the ongoing investigations.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Also read:

Truck driver who damaged bridge on N1 to face these charges in court

Picture: Howard Shopping Centre

Article written by