A pregnant woman in her mid-30s met a tragic end in a brazen drive-by shooting in Mbombela CBD, on Wednesday.
Mbombela pregnant woman drive-by shooting: Here’s everything we know
According to reports, the incident occurred on Samora Machel Street, near Buscor’s bus terminals, in full view of the public.
Eyewitnesses recalled that the victim, a pregnant woman, was allegedly shot by her boyfriend, who approached her in a bakkie after she had disembarked from a taxi.
Eyewitnesses claim that he initially shot the woman in the right leg before taking more shots, fatally hitting her in the head. Afterwards, he fled the scene in the direction of Valencia.
Bystanders quickly alerted the police and paramedics to the scene. Emer-G-Med responders arrived promptly but tragically declared the woman dead at the scene.
A witness alleged that the victim’s mother had advised her daughter to return home due to alleged abuse by the suspect. This counsel reportedly angered the suspect, who had already paid lobola (dowry) for the victim.
Colonel Donald Mdhluli, a provincial police spokesperson, confirmed the incident. He stated that the victim was fatally shot in an alleged drive-by shooting from a white Isuzu Light Delivery Vehicle bakkie.
The victim sustained gunshot wounds in her upper body.
A case of murder has been registered at Nelspruit Police Station, and investigations are ongoing.
While the motive behind the killing remains unknown, Colonel Mdhluli noted that domestic violence cannot be ruled out as a potential factor.
“No arrest has been made so far however, police investigations continue,” Colonel Mdhluli confirmed.
PLEASE NOTE: Domestic violence is a serious crime. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 10111. For support, contact the National GBV Helpline at 0800 150 150 or visit www.saps.gov.za.