INVESTIGATION The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation and arrests are yet to be made.
Image: Leon Knipe
A mass shooting in Elsies River has claimed the lives of two teens and left two others injured.
A shooting was reported after 7:40pm on the corner of Bourne Road and Kriebos Link on Wednesday.
According to eyewitnesses, it is alleged that a vehicle stopped in Francie van Zyl Drive and the suspects made their way to a house shop where they opened fire.
ON SCENE: Shooting on corner of Bourne Road and Kriebos Link in Leonsdale, Elsies River
Image: Leon Knipe
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said Elsies River police registered two counts of murder and two attempted murders following the shooting.
“Two boys aged 16 and 19 were shot and fatally wounded and two females aged 12 and 63 injured. The injured victims were taken to a medical facility for treatment," Van Wyk said.
“According to reports SAPS members attended to a shooting incident at the mentioned address and upon their arrival they found two males on the scene. Medical personnel were already busy attending to them. Both were declared deceased on the scene due to injuries sustained.”
He said residents also alerted police of a 12-year-old girl who sustained gunshot wounds to the hip and thigh and a 63-year-old grandmother who sustained gunshot wounds to her stomach.
“They found the girl at a premises in Glochester Place, 15th Avenue, Leonsdale and the 63-year-old woman at a nearby hospital," Van Wyk said.
“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation and arrests are yet to be made. The motive for the attack is believed to be gang related.”
Valhalla Park High School issued a statement condemning the senseless violence that took away the lives of two young boys.
"Two beautiful souls taken too soon. Your laughter, kindness, and presence brought light to those around you.
“Though you are no longer with us, your memories will forever live in our hearts. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and friends," the school said.
The Elsies River Community Policing Forum (CPF) said that the incident has left their community shocked and grieving.
“The Elsies River CPF wishes to express its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the young lives that were tragically lost during the shooting incident that occurred at approximately 7:30pm on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the corner of Bourne Road and Gloucester Place in the Leonsdale area.
“No family should ever have to endure the pain of losing a child in such a tragic manner.
“We also wish to extend our support to those who were injured and transported to hospital. We hope and pray for their full and speedy recovery.”
Anyone with any information on the incidents can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.
Cape Times