Hennenman, Free State – A fatal shooting in Hennenman has claimed a fifth life, following the death of an injured victim at Bongani Hospital in Welkom, according to official statements.
The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, involved a 47-year-old police officer assigned to Hennenman as a Rural Safety Coordinator. Authorities allege the officer opened fire on five individuals before dying by suicide. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were rushed to medical facilities with critical injuries. The recent passing of one hospitalized patient has elevated the total number of fatalities to five.
A police spokesperson extended sympathies to the affected families, highlighting the profound loss experienced by one household that lost four members in the violence. “The family is devastated and struggling to come to terms with the loss,” the spokesperson conveyed.
Details provided by authorities indicate the officer began searching for his girlfriend late Saturday night. He traveled to the White Plot area outside Hennenman and, after an unsuccessful search at an initial location, proceeded to a neighboring residence where the victims were gathered. The spokesperson explained that the officer inquired about his girlfriend’s location. When those present informed him she was not at the property, he allegedly discharged his weapon.
The spokesperson confirmed that investigative procedures remain active as authorities work to establish a comprehensive account of the events. Community leaders have called for support services for those impacted by the tragedy.