[VIDEO] Reiger Park violence: Community in mourning seeks urgent intervention

The Reiger Park community is reeling after six people were killed and three others injured in a mass shooting last night (November 1).

According to Reiger Park police spokesperson Constable Johannes Msimanga, the shootings occurred at around 18:50 across several streets in the area — including William Street, Stanbury Road, Regent Street and Martin du Preez Street.

“It is alleged the occupants of a silver VW Polo opened fire on multiple people in different locations,” Msimanga said.

“The suspects first targeted a man on William Street before moving to Stanbury Street, where two more victims were shot. They then continued to Regent Street, where four additional victims were gunned down.”

One of the victims, Mapaso Midian (29), reportedly ran to Martin du Preez Street, where he collapsed and died.

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Two others were rushed to Tambo Memorial Hospital, where one woman succumbed to her injuries, while another was treated for a gunshot wound to the groin.

Police said the motive for the attack remains unclear, although it is alleged that the first victim was a gang member.

Victims identified 

Msimanga confirmed the deceased as: Danielle Barlow (male, 22), Ruth Marais (female, 29), Patricia Nieuwenhysen (female, 31), Rayden Joseph (male, 29), Mapaso Midian (male, 29) and Sonto (female, surname and age unknown – died in hospital).

Grief and fear in the community

When Boksburg Advertiser visited the area this morning (November 1), residents and family members were seen comforting one another as tears flowed freely.

A community member, who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons, described the horror of that night:

“I woke up after hearing gunshots and ran outside. I saw a man with a gun, but I couldn’t see his face. When I got to the scene, there were already bodies lying on the street. Two of the boys who were shot are like family to me. The violence has gone too far — these are young people. Our community is struggling.”

He added that a community event had been taking place nearby at the time of the shooting, aimed at uniting residents.

“Then this happened. My cousin was also shot and is now in hospital. It’s just too much for us,” he said.

Councillor calls for intervention 

Ward 34 Councillor Edith Klassen said families are traumatised and struggling to cope.

“It’s heartbreaking. Mothers have died and left young children behind. One granny now has to care for five grandchildren. One woman was the breadwinner. What will happen to her children now?”

Klassen expressed deep concern that the violence could escalate.

“A young man was shot last week, and yesterday’s shooting seems to be connected to his funeral earlier in the day. I fear this could lead to revenge attacks. We need authorities to step in urgently,” she said.

She called for stronger policing and more resources to tackle gangsterism and drug-related violence in the area.

“Those women were just on their way to the shops. They were innocent. If these perpetrators aren’t caught, residents will continue living in fear,” Klassen sen said.

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward as investigations continue.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner has appealed to the community of Reiger Park to allow law enforcement to do their job and work with them by reporting any criminal activities to Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or anonymously give tip-offs on the MySaps App.

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