A tragic and deeply unsettling incident has left a Johannesburg family and community in shock after a seven-year-old boy, Thamsanqa Skhosana, lost his life when he was struck by a golf ball while playing at his home.
According to reports, the young boy was playing in the yard when a golf ball suddenly landed with force and hit him on the head. The incident unfolded without warning, leaving family members confused and traumatised by the sudden turn of events.
Thamsanqa’s older brother, Mavin Skhosana, was nearby at the time, washing the family car. He recalls hearing what he initially believed was one of his younger brother’s playful screams. Moments later, however, the situation took a devastating turn. When Mavin went to check on him, he found Thamsanqa lying on the pavement, bleeding, with a golf ball discovered close to his body.
Emergency services were contacted immediately and arrived at the scene as quickly as possible. Despite their efforts to revive the child, Thamsanqa was tragically declared dead upon arrival. The loss has left the family inconsolable, particularly his mother, Dr Primrose Skhosana, who works as a doctor at NetCare Johannesburg.
Speaking through her grief, Dr Skhosana recounted the heartbreaking moments leading up to her son’s death. She explained that she was upstairs assisting with household cleaning when Mavin urgently called her. “I rushed outside and found my child still breathing faintly,” she said. “I immediately tried to give him first aid, but he passed away in my hands.”
The incident has raised many unanswered questions, particularly regarding the origin of the golf ball. Children in the surrounding area have reportedly said they have no knowledge of where the ball may have come from. The family’s home is not located on or directly adjacent to a golf course, further deepening the mystery surrounding the tragedy.
Police have since opened a case and confirmed that an investigation is underway. Authorities stated that they are actively probing the circumstances of the incident to determine how the golf ball ended up striking the child with such force. “Sisaphenya,” police said, meaning they are investigating.
The shocking death has sparked widespread concern and discussion among community members and on social media. Many have expressed disbelief that a golf ball could travel far enough—or be struck with enough force—to cause fatal injuries in a residential area. Others have called for increased safety measures near sports facilities and open spaces, as well as greater accountability if negligence is found.
As investigations continue, the Skhosana family is left to mourn the sudden loss of a young life filled with promise. Thamsanqa’s death has not only devastated his loved ones but has also left the community grappling with fear, confusion, and grief. Authorities have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward, as the search for answers continues in this heartbreaking and mysterious case.
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