Learners and the wider Thembisa community have been left reeling after a shooting at Inxiweni Primary School on November 18, in which the school’s principal and an administrative staff member were fatally wounded inside the administration block.

According to preliminary information, the incident took place at around 17.00 while the 58-year-old principal, the 55-year-old administrator, and other staff members were preparing for a meeting scheduled for later in the week.

It is alleged that staff working in a nearby office heard sudden gunshots.

Fearing for their safety, they hid until the situation appeared to have calmed. When they emerged, they reportedly found both victims lying in the passage of the admin block.

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Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona told The Thembisan/Kempton Express that emergency services were called immediately, but it was too late to save the two women.

“The colleagues immediately contacted emergency services, who responded swiftly. Sadly, both the Principal and the administrative staff member were declared dead at the scene,” said Mabona.

Police have since launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited the school on last night to assess the scene and gather information.

They also met with both families to offer their condolences and support.

Mabona confirmed that psychosocial support teams, including officials from the Ekurhuleni North District, will be deployed to provide counselling and trauma support to learners and staff.