A violent shooting at a tavern in Zithobeni in the early hours of Sunday morning has left five people dead and six others injured. The incident has prompted a major police investigation and a charge against one of the victims.
According to police reports, the incident occurred on 05 October 2025 at approximately 01:30. The police in Bronkhorstspruit were dispatched to the scene following reports of a shooting.
Preliminary information from witnesses indicates that two men, who are known within the community, entered the establishment and demanded that a specific patron hand over his licensed firearm. An altercation ensued, leading to a shot being fired. As patrons fled outside, the suspects opened fire randomly.
During the chaos, the patron who was the initial target was shot and injured, and his 9mm pistol was taken by the assailants.
The shooting resulted in five fatalities and six individuals sustaining injuries. The injured victims were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Authorities have confirmed that while only one deceased person has been formally identified so far, all six injured individuals have been identified.
In a related development, the injured patron from whom the firearm was stolen will be charged with contravention of the Firearms Control Act, Act 60 of 2000, for the negligent handling of his weapon.
