The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has launched an investigation into a tragic shooting incident in which a Free State police officer allegedly killed three people, wounded two others, and later took his own life near Hennenman.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the officer allegedly went to Whittes Plot in search of his girlfriend in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Provincial spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said when the officer failed to locate his girlfriend, he and the girlfriend’s uncle went to another location, where the uncle confirmed a family gathering was taking place.

“Upon arrival at the place, and after being informed that the girlfriend was not there, an argument allegedly ensued, during which the member allegedly opened fire. Three victims, the girlfriend’s mother, her uncle, and the 25-year-old woman, were declared dead at the scene.”

Mbambo confirmed that two other victims sustained gunshot wounds.

“One was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment, while the other sustained a graze wound and was treated at the scene.”

The officer then turned the gun on himself. Police confirmed that the motive for the shooting remains unknown and forms part of ongoing investigations.

Cases of murder, attempted murder, and an inquest will be registered and investigated by IPID.