Police search ends as Kanana triple murder suspect turns gun on himself
The 38-year-old suspect, who allegedly killed three people in Kanana Ext 4 and opened fire on Rabie Ridge police while fleeing with an 8-year-old child, has killed himself after being tracked near Akasia.
Police have confirmed that the manhunt for the suspect linked to the Rabie Ridge triple murder, as well as the shooting of a police officer, has come to an end.
Authorities said the 38-year-old suspect is believed to have taken his own life near Akasia, bringing closure to a tense multi-day search that followed the violent incident in Kanana Ext 4 on the morning of April 17.
Police have also confirmed that the eight-year-old child, who was allegedly taken during the incident, has been found safe and unharmed.
Read more: Rabie Ridge police hunt suspect after triple murder and police shooting in Kanana
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said the suspect’s movements were tracked after he fled the crime scene and attempted to evade arrest. “It is reported that, after he fled the scene, he abandoned and burned the vehicle he used to flee the scene between Ivory Park and Tembisa.
“He then hijacked an Avanza vehicle. The driver activated Tracker, and the car was tracked to the N14, near Aksia. When the K9 unit and Tracker members tried to stop him, he reportedly shot himself.”
Police further confirmed that a hijacking case has since been opened as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident stems from a tragic early-morning domestic dispute, which left three people dead. According to police, the suspect allegedly shot his girlfriend following an argument before turning the weapon on two other individuals inside the home.
Also read: Rabie Ridge police investigate after body found with head injuries
Upon responding to the scene, the police also came under fire, leading to two other women sustaining gunshot injuries. A police officer was injured by shattered glass from the police vehicle that was shot at.
The two women and the officer are receiving medical treatment in the hospital, while the first three victims were declared dead, said Ekurhuleni District Police spokesperson Captain Nelda Sekgobela.
Police investigations into the case are ongoing.
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
