[imagesource:pickpik]

In a devastating incident that happened on Thursday, a security guard shot and killed a 13-year-old boy, while injuring his friend, at the Matafeni Junior Secondary School in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape.

This tragic killing occurred after a group of seven minors gained access to the school grounds to be able to use the school’s free WiFi network, according to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu via The Citizen.

When the security guard went to confront the students, they attempted to flee, at which point the guard discharged his weapon, hitting and injuring two of the boys.

Sadly, the 13-year-old boy succumbed to his injuries at the scene, while the other boy, who is of the same age, sustained gunshot wounds.

The injured teenager was transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention while the security guard fled the scene only to be arrested later that evening.

The 62-year-old man faces charges of murder, attempted murder, possession of a prohibited firearm due to an obliterated serial number, and illegal possession of ammunition. He is set to appear before the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

With the suspect in police custody, Naidu said the case will be “thoroughly investigated to ensure that justice is served”.

Provincial commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene, emphasised the importance of appropriate responses in security situations while lamenting how sad the situation is.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time a student has lost their life in a school environment-related shooting in South Africa.

Last month, a learner from Belgravia High School in Cape Town lost her life while waiting for her transport outside the school’s gate. Zamawushe Momoti was caught in a gang crossfire and was struck by a stray bullet, which ended up taking her life.

The kids are not alright.

[source:citizen]