Three people, including a nine-month-old baby, have been shot and killed in a devastating attack in Athlone on the Cape Flats, prompting police to launch an intensive manhunt for the suspects responsible.
According to police, the shooting took place at Sunbird Court on Monday when three armed suspects allegedly opened fire on a group of people before fleeing the scene. The brazen attack left two women, aged 25 and 36, dead alongside the infant. Two adult men also sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to hospital for medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been disclosed.
The tragic killing of the infant has sent shockwaves through the Athlone community, with residents expressing anger and heartbreak over the continued violence plaguing parts of the Cape Flats. Scenes of crime tape and scattered cartridges marked the area as detectives combed through evidence in an effort to piece together what led to the deadly ambush.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear at this stage. Police have not confirmed whether the victims were specifically targeted or caught in crossfire. Investigators are working to determine the circumstances that led to the attack and whether it may be linked to ongoing criminal activity in the area.
Western Cape police spokesperson Andre Traut confirmed that detectives from the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit have been assigned to the case. He said officers are working around the clock to track down the three suspects who fled shortly after the shooting.
“Detectives attached to the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit are working tirelessly to identify and arrest the three suspects who fled the scene,” Traut said. “All available resources have been mobilised to bring those responsible to justice.”
Police have appealed to members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation. Anyone with details about the incident or the whereabouts of the suspects is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tips via the MySAPS mobile application.
The latest shooting adds to a growing list of violent incidents reported across Cape Town in recent weeks, raising renewed concerns about safety in residential communities. Community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger law enforcement visibility and long-term interventions to address gang-related and firearm violence in hotspot areas.
Residents in Athlone described the incident as traumatic, particularly given the death of the baby. Community members gathered near the scene on Tuesday, some visibly emotional, as they tried to come to terms with the loss.
As the investigation continues, police say they remain committed to ensuring that those behind the attack are swiftly brought before the courts. Authorities have urged the public not to speculate about the motive while investigations are ongoing.
The families of the victims are expected to receive trauma counselling as the community mourns yet another senseless act of violence.
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