In a bizarre incident that left an entire community shocked, a boy (13) allegedly stabbed his friend (14) to death.

This incident happened on Monday afternoon in Msogwaba, Pienaar, near Mbombela.

According to a provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, the police are investigating the motive behind the incident. However, sourced information at Lowvelder Express’ disposal suggested that the teens were playing with knives on that fateful day.

“The children live in the same street and they always play together and with other kids from the street. And on Monday, these two had knives on them and they staged a knife fight. As they were playing one ran off as if he was going home. The other one relaxed, thinking that he had gone home. But he returned and stabbed his friend,” said a bystander who had witnessed the incident.

Probed for official comment on the incident, Mohlala, said, “It is alleged that the incident occurred on Monday March 14 at about 19:00. The children were playing when a 13-year-old, who had a knife, stabbed the 14-year-old in the neck.”

Mohlala said the victim died on the scene.

“The motive is still unknown as the other children failed to explain what had really transpired. But, the police are hard at work investigating the matter. The victim succumbed to his injuries and the suspect was taken to a place of safety to prevent a quarrel breaking out between both families,” added Mohlala.

He said the suspect was examined and interviewed by the probation officer for assessment on Tuesday. Lowvelder Express has since learned that the deceased had been a Grade 9 learner while the suspect is a Grade 7 pupil. A member of the public, Sibongile Hlophe, said the entire community is traumatised by this incident.

“It’s really sad what happened. These are just little children who both had a bright future ahead of them, but all of that is gone now. We seriously need to pray for the safety of our children. I feel sorry for both families,” said Hlophe.