The Animal Anti-Cruelty League Cape Town (AACL-CT) has suspended all mobile clinic operations until further notice following a tragic shooting at one of its facilities in Ravensmead on Wednesday, which left a man dead and a 12-year-old child injured.

The victims were waiting at the mobile clinic for care for their dog when the incident occurred. The male client was fatally shot inside the mobile unit, while the child sustained gunshot wounds to the shoulder and leg and was transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

AACL-CT expressed its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

“No one should ever lose their life while trying to care for a beloved pet.”

Dr Leandré, Principal Veterinarian at AACL-CT, highlighted the toll the incident has taken on staff.

“Our staff are the backbone of our organisation. They were forced to face the ultimate horror and then had to literally clean up the aftermath of a tragedy in the very space where they usually save lives. They are heroes, but they are also grieving and traumatised. Their mental well-being is our top priority.”

The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that a case of murder and attempted murder is under investigation.

“Ravensmead police registered a murder and attempted murder case following a shooting incident on Wednesday, on an open field at Edgar Block Street, Ravensmead, in which a 25 year old male was shot and fatally wounded and a 12 year old boy injured.”

The motive for the attack remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.