The quiet suburb of Padfield Park in Pinetown became the scene of a tragic crime, where a domestic dispute turned deadly. A manhunt is currently underway for a man suspected of fatally shooting his wife.
This event, which unfolded earlier on Wednesday, has sent shockwaves through the community and mobilised the Pinetown SAPS in a search for justice.
Padfield Park horror: SANDF soldier wanted for killing wife in Pinetown
WARNING: This article contains details about domestic violence and may be distressing to some readers.
Pinetown SAPS Communications Officer Jennifer Naidu detailed the grim scene.
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“The husband allegedly shot the wife several times in the upper body. She died on scene,” said Naidu.
The incident is said to have stemmed from an argument between the husband and wife, escalating to a violent and tragic conclusion.
Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of the shooting. Garrith Jamieson, from ALS Paramedics, described arriving at the house on Tyrone Road in Padfield Park.
“Paramedics were shown inside the house to where a female was found to have sustained multiple gunshot wounds,” Jamieson reported.
Despite their efforts, there was nothing they could do, and the woman was declared deceased on the scene.
The suspect, identified as a member of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), fled the scene on foot. Pinetown police and other law enforcement agencies are urging anyone with information that could lead to the man’s arrest to come forward and contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
The prevalence of gender-based violence in South Africa
This incident adds to the grim tapestry of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. The year 2023 was marked as a particularly bleak year for women in the country.
Despite various interventions and programmes, the statistics on gender-based violence remain alarmingly high.
More than 13 000 sexual offences and over 14 000 cases of assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm against women were reported between July and September 2023 alone.
Efforts to combat GBV have seen updates in legislation since 2022, including stricter bail conditions and the establishment of a National Council on GBV and femicide.
This body is responsible for providing leadership in preventing and responding to GBV and femicide.
However, cases like the tragic event in Padfield Park highlight the ongoing struggle against this societal scourge.
TAKE NOTE: If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, immediate help is available. In South Africa, you can contact the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) by dialling *120*7867# (free from any cell phone) or the National Crisis Helpline at 0800 150 150. These services offer confidential support and can connect you with resources for protection and legal assistance. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you are not alone.
