East ‘hero’ store owner recovering in hospital after shooting
Mike van Leeuwing was shot in the upper body when he intervened when two men tried to rob a woman of her jewellery.
A hardware store owner, who was shot during a recent attempted robbery at the Olivewood shopping centre on Wednesday, is recovering in intensive care.
Mike van Leeuwen, of Warrior Paint and Hardware in Moreleta Park, was shot in the upper body when he intervened when three men tried to rob a woman of her jewellery.
Speaking to Rekord, the 54-year-old said he was in his office when his son, who worked with him, warned him about what was happening.
“I rushed out of the office to assist the lady and was immediately shot by one of the guys.
“I then drew my firearm and returned fire at the attackers.
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“I am not sure if I hit them, but they broke off their attack and jumped into a waiting car that sped away.”
He was airlifted to Milpark hospital’s ICU.
Van Leeuwen said he sustained a bullet wound to his liver as well as his right kidney.
“The bullet also chipped a piece off a vertebra,” he said.
“I have a lot of pain, but I am in God’s hands and the best nurses and doctors are helping me.”
Since Rekord reported on the incident members of the community have been sending their good wishes, with some lauding Van Leeuwen as a hero.
Recalling the moment that led to his heroic act, Van Leeuwen said his instinct was to help without giving it a second thought.
“I would think that everyone should be prepared to get involved and help a person who is facing danger or death. That’s what community is, isn’t it?” he said.
“I would like to thank God for my life and all my family and friends and the community members for all the well wishes and support.”
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Duane Lightfoot said police were investigating a case of attempted murder and attempted armed robbery.
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He said the three suspects fled the scene in a white Volkswagen Polo.
Anyone with information regarding the incident can contact the Garsfontein police station at 012-472-0144.
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