Seven-Year-Old Fatally Shot By Cousin Using Father’s Gun In Eastern Cape

A tragic incident unfolded in Nothintwa locality, Ngcwanguba A/A, Mqanduli, on Thursday, 2 October 2025, when a seven-year-old boy was fatally shot by his eight-year-old cousin.

The incident occurred around 12:45 p.m. after the child gained access to his father’s licensed firearm.

According to police reports, the eight-year-old pointed the weapon at his cousin, and a shot went off, killing the boy instantly.

Police Open Murder and Negligence Cases after the shot killed the boy

Authorities at Kwaaiman police station have opened two cases following the fatal shooting: one of murder against the eight-year-old child, and another of negligence and failure to safeguard a firearm against the boy’s 48-year-old father.

Police confirmed that the father was released on warning and is expected to appear at the Mqanduli Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 3 October 2025.

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The eight-year-old boy has been referred to social workers for further intervention. Police say investigations are ongoing as the community grapples with the unfortunate death of the young victim.

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