A devastating drive-by shooting in Lavender Hill on Tuesday night claimed the lives of a 14-year-old girl and her alleged 17-year-old boyfriend, leaving their families and community in shock and mourning.
### A Tragic Incident
The tragedy unfolded on Hilary Drive shortly before 7 pm when gunmen unleashed a barrage of bullets. Reyonce Thomas, a 14-year-old girl, was shot and killed while reportedly talking to her alleged boyfriend near a local tuckshop. Witnesses described the harrowing scene, where the boy, believed to be the intended target, and Reyonce were caught in the deadly crossfire.
Reyonce’s mother, Leslyn, recounted the heartbreaking events leading up to the shooting. “I had just returned home from Red Cross Hospital when Reyonce and her sister went to the shop,” she explained. “She met this boy there, and as they were talking, the shooting happened. My daughter was shot three times.”
Leslyn revealed that Reyonce was still alive when she arrived at the scene, although unresponsive. “She didn’t speak, but she could respond. Unfortunately, the ambulance took too long to arrive,” the grieving mother said.
### A Community in Mourning
Reyonce’s family is left grappling with the loss of a bright, outgoing girl who was preparing to start high school next year. Leslyn described her daughter as a cheerful and friendly child who always brought joy to those around her. “She was excited to start Grade 8 in Mitchells Plain next year. The community is devastated by what has happened,” she added.
The boy’s family, meanwhile, has chosen not to comment on the incident, adding to the silence surrounding the tragedy.
### Police Investigation
Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk confirmed that Steenberg police are investigating two counts of murder following the shooting. He stated: “At approximately 6:50 pm, SAPS members responded to reports of a shooting in Hilary Drive. Upon arrival, they discovered the bodies of a 14-year-old girl and a 17-year-old boy. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.”
Authorities believe the shooting was gang-related and that a white Toyota Corolla, with unknown suspects inside, was used in the drive-by attack. Captain Van Wyk noted that the boy appeared to be the primary target, with Reyonce being shot as a potential witness.
### Call for Justice
The police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. They have appealed to the public to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 to assist in the investigation.
As the Lavender Hill community mourns the loss of two young lives, calls for action against gang violence have grown louder. Reyonce’s untimely death serves as a grim reminder of the dangers young people face in areas plagued by crime and violence.
Families and community members continue to seek answers, hoping for justice for Reyonce and the boy whose lives were tragically cut short.