Man arrested after fatally shooting his family in Mashashane

A 56-year-old man has been arrested for the murder of his teenage son and the attempted murder of his wife and another son following a violent domestic incident at Mandela Village in Mashashane, Limpopo.

The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, 1 January 2026, at around 2:00am.

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According to police reports, the suspect allegedly arrived home intoxicated and found his wife sitting with a neighbour. An argument reportedly ensued, which quickly escalated into violence.

Their two sons, aged 17 and 20, attempted to intervene in an effort to calm the situation. However, the man allegedly became increasingly aggressive and drew his licensed firearm, firing several shots at his family members.

The 17-year-old son was reportedly shot in the head and died at the scene. The 20-year-old sustained a gunshot wound to his right hand, while the wife was shot in the thigh. Both survivors were rushed to hospital for medical treatment.

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Following the shooting, the suspect fled the scene on foot. A police manhunt led officers to a local primary school, where he was found hiding. Police say he pointed a firearm at officers and was shot in the hand during the confrontation.

He was immediately arrested and is currently receiving medical treatment under police guard. Investigations are ongoing, and he is expected to appear in court once medically fit.