PE man pulls trigger on himself allegedly over financial stress

Police spokesperson, Captain Johan Rheeder, said it was alleged that Ronald Vogelstruis was going through financial stress over the purchase of a property.

“According to his wife he was not in a good financial situation and he was not feeling well today,” said Rheeder.

Rheeder said it was alleged that just after 6am Vogelstruis went to his neighbours in Bethelsdorp and started shooting at two men, aged 40 and 52.

Vogelstruis allegedly stood outside the Broadway Supermarket and started shooting at the two men, who have since been admitted to hospital.

The motive for the shooting is unknown.

“After the incident he went to fetch another firearm and went to his brothers house situated just one kilometer away. No one was inside the house and he locked himself inside,” said Rheeder.

Police were called to the scene and for two and a half hours tried to convince Vogelstruis to come outside.

Rheeder said just before 9am a shot went off inside the Bethelsdorp home.

Police have opened an inquest docket and are investigating two cases of attempted murder.

Police also confiscated two legal firearms.