Limpopo police investigate after elderly man allegedly dies by suicide following fatal shooting

Limpopo police investigate after elderly man allegedly dies by suicide following fatal shooting! Police in Limpopo are investigating a tragic incident involving a 75-year-old man who allegedly died by suicide after shooting and killing another man and setting his home on fire.

Incident Details

According to Provincial Police Spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the elderly suspect had been searching for a man who had sold him bricks.

“The suspect, who was driving his own vehicle, met the victim on the street in his vehicle. Without saying a word, he shot him in the upper body. The victim managed to drive himself to the nearest hospital,” Ledwaba explained.

Following the shooting, the 75-year-old suspect returned home and allegedly set his house on fire.

Elderly man allegedly dies

Terrifying Attack on Wife

Once home, the suspect woke up his wife and threatened to kill her. He then ordered her to enter the burning house with him.

“Fortunately, the wife managed to escape. The suspect tried to chase her and fired several shots at her, but he did not succeed,” said Ledwaba.

After his failed attempts to harm his wife, the suspect turned the gun on himself and died at the scene.

Police Investigation Ongoing

Limpopo police have since opened an inquest case as they continue to piece together what led to the violent outburst.

Authorities have urged members of the public to seek professional help if they are experiencing domestic disputes or gender-based violence (GBV)-related issues.

“The police urge anyone who is experiencing any gender-based violence-related or domestic violence-related matter to seek assistance from professionals,” said Ledwaba.

A Growing Pattern of Domestic Tragedies

This shocking incident is one of several similar cases reported in Limpopo in recent months.

Last year, police in Levubu, Vhembe district, investigated a murder-suicide involving a 27-year-old man who hacked his wife to death with an axe before taking his own life.

The incident took place at the couple’s home in Ha-Mashau Misevhe.

“Upon arrival, police found the female victim with severe injuries and the male suspect hanging from the rooftop,” said Ledwaba.

Although the motive behind the brutal attack was unclear, police suspected domestic violence played a role.

Call for Action Against Domestic Violence

Cases like these highlight the urgent need for intervention in domestic violence and mental health issues across the province.

Experts believe that many violent domestic incidents stem from unresolved disputes, financial pressures, or mental health struggles.

Authorities are urging people facing family conflicts, financial stress, or emotional distress to seek help from professionals before resorting to violence.

Available Resources for Help

South African Police Service (SAPS) – If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, contact SAPS for immediate intervention.

GBV Command Centre (0800 428 428) – Provides 24/7 support for victims of gender-based violence.

Thuthuzela Care Centres – Offer counseling and legal assistance to survivors of GBV.

Lifeline South Africa (0861 322 322) – Offers emotional support and crisis counseling.

Conclusion

The tragic deaths in Limpopo serve as a reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and mental health struggles.

Police continue to investigate the latest case, hoping to understand the motives behind the suspect’s actions.

With increased awareness and access to professional support, authorities hope to prevent further incidents of domestic violence and suicide in South Africa.