Seven people were killed and two others hospitalised following a mass shooting allegedly by a local tavern owner.

The incident happened at Mokokotlong Informal Settlement.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili  reports that police were called to the scene in the early hours of Sunday morning.

“It is reported that one of the victims went to the local tavern to buy alcohol but found that it was already closed.

“He had an altercation with the tavern owner and went back home.”

It is alleged that the tavern owner followed him home where family members were still celebrating lobola negotiations.

The tavern owner allegedly opened fire at the family members, killing seven people including a three-year-old boy.

According to Muridili, four people survived the shooting. Two of them, a 31-year-old and a one-year-old boy were taken to hospital with injuries while a 24-year-old woman and a four-year-old did not sustain any injuries.

“The suspect then drove back home in Evaton where he allegedly shot himself. He was rushed to hospital but he died on arrival.”

Muridili confirms that the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit have registered seven counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder and an inquest.