WHEN 14-year-old avid soccer player, Owen Robson Mankahla, left to play what would be his final match, he told his parents that he will be home in time for supper.
A flat tyre on that fateful afternoon led the driver of the white VW Golf he was travelling in to stop on Tara Road, in Wentworth, just outside Engen, on July 22.
Moments later, occupants from a vehicle passing by opened fire on the white VW Golf which was on a jack, while the tyre was about to be replaced.
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Fearing for his life, Owen, a learner at PR Pather Primary School, ran into Engen to flee from the numerous bullets shot at the car he was travelling in. But he had already been struck in his thigh by a bullet.
Owen’s parents, Robson Komarpersad and Nonkululeko Mankahla, from Merebank, believe that the vehicle their son was travelling in was mistaken for the vehicle of a man who was killed about a week prior, during a shooting relating to gang violence, which is rife in the area.
Spokesperson for Wentworth police, Captain Mbuso Gumede, said police were alerted to the shooting at 19:20.
“On arrival, police established that four men had been shot. One of the victims, a 17-year-old boy, was fatally wounded. The others were transported to a nearby hospital and later, a second victim also succumbed to his injuries.
Detectives are investigating two murder cases and two attempted murder cases. The suspects are unknown at this stage and the vehicle used in the commission of the crime is unknown,” Gumede added.
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Owen was a die-hard Liverpool supporter who played for the Ridgeview Football Club for a year.
“His hobbies were watching soccer and dancing. He was passionate about pursuing a career in football. Owen was the most adored member of our family and was loved by his huge circle of friends.
“His presence could always lighten up our day and we will never forget the sound of his infectious laughter. He brought joy to our lives and was always willing to lend a helping hand. We will miss him dearly,” said his parents.
Owen was laid to rest on July 26.
Police are appealing to anyone with information about the suspects or the vehicle used in the commission of the crime, to contact them.
To provide information, call Wentworth police station on 031 451 6240/6241/6242 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
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