Police have confirmed that the Bafana captain, Senzo Meyiwa, was shot dead on Sunday night in Vosloorus around 8pm.
South African Police Service broke the news of his death via twitter, stating the need to move away from protocol in confirming his death.
We have to brake normal protocol. We can confirm that Bucs keeper Senzo Meyiwa has been shot and sadly declared dead on arrival at hospital.
— SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) October 26, 2014
It appears that Meyiwa and six others were gathered at the singer, Kelly Khumalo’s home when the shooting occurred.
According to police reports, two suspects entered the singer’s home and Meyiwa was shot in the chest during an altercation.
Orlando Pirates Club Chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza said in a statement, “This is a sad loss whichever way you look at it – to Senzo’s family especially his children, to Orlando Pirates and to the nation.”
Meyiwa was killed a day after his team had advanced to the Semi-Finals of the Telkom Knock-out. As captain he was instrumental in leading Bafana Bafana to the top of their African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification group.
Meanwhile, thousands of followers have taken to Twitter to share their condolences and disbelief after the tragedy:
Senzo Meyiwa is dead! Am at a loss for words! What society are we living in! The death of humanity! Anarchy set loose! Senzo lives in memory
— Vusi Pikoli (@VusiPikoli) October 27, 2014
Devastating news! Bafana & Pirates keeper Senzo Meyiwa shot dead. Feeling so sad & angry. #RIPSenzo Condolences to his family & colleagues.
— Aki Anastasiou (@AkiAnastasiou) October 27, 2014
My thoughts and prayers goes out the family of Senzo Meyiwa. May you find the comfort in the Lord during this difficult time. RIP.
— Vernon Philander (@VDP_24) October 27, 2014
MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN PEACE, TO SENZO’S WIFE, FAMILY, FRIENDS THAT THE REST OF THE NATION, GOD WILL NEVER LEAVE U ALONE, AND WE MUST UNDERSTAND THAT THERE IS LIFE AFTER DEATH, WE DONT KNOW OUR DESTINATION AND WE DONT KNOW HOW, WHERE AND WHEN
To our beloved captain and number goalkeeper in SA,MYDSRIP.A message to his killers-GOD KNOWS YOU & YOU WILL REAP WHAT YOU HAVE SOWN.South Africans are owed an explanation and should you be caught before the police get to you-YOU KNOW WHAT IS COMING YOUR WAY-NO ASKIES LAPHO!