Tragedy struck a Bethelsdorp family yesterday, August 11, when a 6-year-old boy allegedly shot and killed his 5-year-old cousin* by accident.
According to police information, it is alleged that between 13:00 and 14:00, three children, two boys aged six years and a 5-year-old girl, were playing with a firearm in the room of a house in Extension 31 when a shot went off. Police spokesperson, Col. Priscilla Naidu, said that it is further alleged that one of the boys accidentally shot his cousin in the head with a .38 revolver. “The child was taken to hospital by ambulance in a critical condition but passed away last night,” Naidu said.
SAPS Bethelsdorp detectives have opened a case of defeating the ends of justice and culpable homicide.
“Upon police arrival, the firearm was allegedly removed and could not be found. A charge of defeating the ends of justice is opened for further investigation,” she added.
More charges may be added and arrests effected as the investigation unfolds.
