A 16-year-old girl was shot and killed in Athlone while standing at the gates of her school on Friday afternoon.

According to police, rival gangs had been firing shots and killed a man in Canal Road, Athlone. The teenager was situated at the gates of Belgravia High School in Vlei Road (mere metres from the adjacent crime scene) when she was caught in the crossfire. Police Colonel Andre Traut says the shooting happened at around 12h30.

“A 16-year-old girl who was standing at the gates of Belgravia High School in Vlei Road was caught in the crossfire and sustained a fatal gunshot wound. The suspects fled the scene and are yet to be apprehended,” explained Traut.

Police are calling on the Athlone community to assist in tracing the brazen gunmen.

#sapsWC The Athlone community is encouraged to assist police with information.
Rival gangs fired several shots randomly at around 12:30, killing a man (20) in Canal Road Athlone. A girl (16) who was standing at the gates of Belgravia High School in Vlei Road was caught in the… pic.twitter.com/6zQwEZx3G4

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) April 19, 2024

“Any person who can shed light on the matter, or who knows who were involved in the ruthless murders is kindly requested to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or by using the mobile application MySAPS anonymously,” said Traut.

The Western Cape Education Department said the tragic incident happened right after learners were dismissed for the day. Spokesperson Bronagh Hammond confirmed that psychosocial support is being offered to learners and staff.

“She was allegedly shot by a stray bullet, following a flare-up of gang violence in the community over the last few days. The WCED are on scene to render the necessary support. This will include counselling interventions. This is a tragic and horrific incident and our condolences go to the family, friends and the school community,” said Hammond.