Even under the most carefully controlled circumstances, the potential for unforeseen danger lingers.
Car enthusiasts enjoying an automotive street performance were caught up in a violent and deadly exchange, 5 June. Gunshots rang out at a Stance and Spin event hosted by Stance Universe, killing one person and injuring two others at the Saturday afternoon event. Roodepoort Police confirmed on Thursday, 10 June, that one male suspect has been arrested for the murder that occurred at what police have labelled an ‘íllegal spinning event’.
Several automotive clubs exist on the West Rand with the venue of Saturday night’s tragedy a popular hub of activity. Located near the corner of Nick Toomey Boulevard and Randfontein Road, the brick factory that hosted the event is a private for-hire site that regularly hosts events for automotive daredevils. The onus is thus on the hosts of the event to arrange and meet stipulated City of Johannesburg joint operations committee requirements.
Roodepoort Spin City is a brand that has become synonymous with the venue but owners of that brand, who prefer to go by their aliases Izzy and Yugz, have distanced themselves from the event. “We were approached about three weeks ago by Stance Universe to hold an event at Roodepoort Spin City but we declined. We, as Roodepoort Spin City did not host the event and wish to clarify as such so we are not painted with the same brush,” stated Izzy.
Roodepoort Spin City claimed that after failed negotiations, Stance Universe agreed terms for hosting the event directly with the property’s landlord. “We didn’t want to work with Stance on this event. Stance negotiated directly with the landlord and an indemnity form was signed by Stance Universe, holding them liable for anything that happens at the venue,” stated Izzy. Stance Universe did acknowledge the event but declined to comment on the specifics of Saturday’s shooting incident.
“It is unfortunate and really sad what took place, but Roodepoort Spin City had nothing to do with the event itself. We have been hosting events there for three or four years, and we have never had an incident like this,” continued Izzy. Roodepoort Police spokesperson, Captain Juanita Yorke confirmed, “The investigation team followed up on all information received from the community, which assisted in the arrest of the perpetrator”.
The suspect will appear in the Roodepoort Magistrates’ Court soon.
