Video: Public mourns girl (11) killed during hijacking in Durban

Zara Ramsamy (11), who hid underneath a car after witnessing an attempted hijacking, was killed when the suspects drove off.

According to reports, Zara’s mother had taken her and her brother, as well as her own mother, to a fast-food outlet on Main Road, Malvern, Durban. While the mother and grandmother went inside, the children remained in the vehicle.

Highway Mail reports a silver-coloured vehicle, with its bright lights on, entered the parking lot. Four armed men exited the vehicle, one of who stood guard with a rifle, while the other three approached the mother at the entrance and demanded the car keys.

Zara, seeing the situation unfold, got out of the vehicle and hid underneath it while her sibling ran away. The suspects took the keys and drove off, tragically running over Zara as they fled the scene.

KZN police spokesperson Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo confirmed that Malvern police are investigating cases of murder and carjacking following the incident, which occurred last night.

“The victim was transported to a nearby hospital where she was declared dead on arrival,” said Ngcobo.

The vehicle, a Toyota Fortuner, was later recovered in Chesterville.

Rising Sun Newspapers reports that the senseless incident has sparked widespread outcry on social media, with the community demanding justice.

CPFs, community members, and more aired their views on social media as photos of the child, later identified as Zara, circulated along with video footage of the incident.

Warning: The video may be upsetting to sensitive viewers

Watch it here:

11-year-old killed in carjacking in Malvern, Durban.
#CrimeWatch pic.twitter.com/22e0gGWAfD

— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) September 12, 2024

The newspaper adds that the principal of Penzance Primary School, Hennie Havemann, expressed his sympathies in a statement to parents of the Glenwood institution.

“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the tragic and untimely passing of one of our beloved grade five pupils. Zarah Ramsamy, a bright and cherished member of our school family, has left us far too soon. At this time, our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Zarah’s family, friends, classmates, and all who were touched by her warmth, kindness and vibrant spirit. Losing such a young soul is profoundly heartbreaking and we know that many will feel the impact of this loss.

“We understand that news of this nature is distressing for everyone, especially our pupils. To support our pupils during this difficult time, we have arranged for counselling services to be available at the school. We encourage anyone in need of support to reach out to us. In the coming days, we will provide more information regarding funeral arrangements and how our school will commemorate and honour Zarah’s life. During this time of mourning, we ask that you please keep Zarah’s family in your thoughts and prayers,” said Havemann.