A community in Alexandra is reeling after a horrific attack that claimed the life of a 26-year-old woman on Thursday night. The young mother, described by neighbours and relatives as kind-hearted and soft-spoken, was killed in one of the most shocking acts of violence the area has witnessed this year.
The tragic incident unfolded along 3rd Ruth Street, shortly after the woman and her sister arrived home from work. As usual, they had taken the staff transport that dropped them off near their residence. It was just a few steps from home—a place where anyone should feel safe—when their quiet walk turned into a nightmare.
According to witnesses, a masked attacker had been lying in wait, hiding in the dark near the victim’s home. As the two women walked, the assailant suddenly emerged and shot the 26-year-old from behind. The sister, stunned and confused, reportedly screamed for help as the gunman continued his assault. Residents say the attacker fired five additional shots at the helpless woman, ensuring she had no chance to escape.
But the horror didn’t end there. After the gunfire, the killer allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed the victim six times. The brutality of the attack has left the community shaken and demanding answers. Authorities confirmed that nothing was taken from the victim, ruling out robbery as a motive. The sister, who survived the ordeal, fainted from shock and had to be assisted by neighbours who rushed to the scene.
What has made the tragedy even more painful for the family is that this is not the first time violence has struck them in this exact spot. In a chilling twist, the woman’s partner was also killed at the same location last year. Community members say this raises disturbing questions about whether the murder was targeted or connected to previous events.
The 26-year-old leaves behind three young children who will now grow up without their mother. Family members describe her as a loving parent who worked hard to support her kids and make sure they lacked nothing. Her gentle nature made her popular within the neighbourhood, where many are now mourning her untimely death.
Police have launched a manhunt for the masked killer, who fled the scene immediately after the attack. Investigators are gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses, including the victim’s sister, who is expected to provide crucial information once she recovers from the trauma.
Community leaders in Alex have called for increased police visibility in the area, arguing that criminals have become emboldened due to poor lighting, lack of street surveillance, and insufficient patrols. Women in the neighbourhood now fear walking home at night, even when accompanied by family members.
As the family prepares for funeral arrangements, they are also pleading for justice. They hope the perpetrator will be found swiftly so that no other family has to endure such pain.
Police have urged anyone with information to come forward. The investigation continues.
