An outpouring of tributes and heartfelt messages have followed the shocking murder of Leni Hamilton (67), who was shot dead in her Centurion business, Hikers Paradise, around 17:00 on February 6.
Hamilton was well-known in the Centurion community and among hiking enthusiasts across the country.
Police have opened a murder investigation, and are looking for the suspects – three men and a woman.
Sarel van Rensburg said: “Leni was Hikers Paradise and Hikers Paradise was Leni,” a sentiment that many share.
Hikers Paradise opened its doors almost 30 years ago in 1994 but was closed following Hamilton’s murder, and events cancelled, until further notice.
She was set to present a Camino information session on Saturday.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened by the untimely death of Leni Hamilton, an adventurer and a wonderful human being,” said David Jacobs on Facebook.
Dipak Bastakoti said: “She did not deserve such a fate, as she loves people, always smiles, and is kind in many ways.”
According to Tshwane police spokesperson, Warrant-Officer Johan van Dyk, a shopper who witnessed the crime told police that the suspects entered the shop and began talking loudly.
The witness said Hamilton wanted to attend to them because they were disturbing the other shoppers.
“[Hamilton] spoke to the suspects and requested them to leave,” said Van Dyk.
The witness told police that she began moving towards the door.
“One suspect grabbed a handgun from the other suspect and shot her [Hamilton] in the face,” said Van Dyk.
The witness hid behind a display.
Van Dyk said Hamilton died instantly then the suspects fled in two vehicles.
Lyttelton SAPS, forensic investigators, and detectives collected and processed evidence at the scene and were following up on leads.
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