The family of the mother and nurse seriously wounded in a shooting outside her Firgrove home have expressed their collective gratitude for her survival of the near-fatal incident, which has sent shock waves through the community.
“We realise the situation could have played out differently and remain thankful for her life that was spared,” said a relative appointed as family spokesperson.
The 51-year-old victim is still recovering in the intensive care unit at a local hospital after being targeted by a pair of armed men who pounced on the Salvo Park resident as she was leaving home for work early on Saturday morning (12 August).
According to provincial police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi local police responded to the incident in Jacaranda Avenue around 07:00 and on arrival found Williams with multiple gunshot wounds.
“Reports suggest the woman opened the gate to the premises when she saw two unknown men behind her car,” Swartbooi related. “A scuffle ensued, which resulted in the victim being shot.”
The relative confirmed police reports, stating the victim’s husband rushed to her aid after being alerted to her screams followed by the sound of gunshots.
While it was initially believed the victim was targeted in a suspected carjacking, Swartbooi pointed out the motive for the attack, which allegedly left the victim wounded in the arm and stomach, was still under investigation.
“We do not want to speculate,” added the relative.
“However, if the suspects wanted the car they could have taken it. Not the vehicle or anything else was taken in the incident.”
The relative added the family was still reeling in shock, for shootings were not a normal occurrence in their quiet neighbourhood, which appears to be plagued by criminal elements from outside targeting the easily accessible area located between the N2 highway and R102 arterial routes.
The relative further expressed disbelief following the traumatic and unexpected attack on their loved one, whom he described as a lovely, caring and God-fearing woman who passionately served her community as a dedicated front-line health worker and sister at a local hospital.
“It all happened so quickly, and we are all still trying to come to terms with it. The harsh reality is especially tough on her daughter, who is battling to cope with the situation while focusing on her studies as a third-year medical student.”
The Stellenbosch University student turned to DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette just two months ago, calling on the greater Helderberg community’s assistance to realise a student-exchange summer school abroad for two weeks last month (July).
