Polokwane – A police sergeant shot four family members – killing two and wounding the others – before turning his gun on himself in a weekend tragedy that rocked Tayereni Village, Dennilton, Sekhukhune District, Limpopo.
Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the violent episode occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 27 June 2026.
“Two family members were killed, two others were seriously injured, before the suspect allegedly took his own life,” confirmed the police spokesperson.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the 52-year-old police sergeant based in Soshanguve, Gauteng, had reportedly been quarrelling with his wife before the tragedy.
“It is alleged that following an altercation in Soshanguve, the wife sought refuge at her parental home in Tayereni Village after requesting her mother to accompany her to Limpopo,” said Colonel Ledwaba.
“The suspect allegedly arrived at the residence at approximately 01:00 and opened fire, fatally shooting his 68-year-old mother-in-law and his 29-year-old stepson.
“He allegedly also shot and wounded his 46-year-old wife and their 14-year-old biological daughter.
“The two injured victims managed to flee the scene and were admitted to a local hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment.”
Police immediately launched a manhunt for the suspect, who was later traced to his residence in Dennilton.
“As police attempted to effect his arrest, the suspect allegedly shot himself and died at the scene,” stated Colonel Ledwaba.
“It is not yet clear whether the firearm used in the commission of the offence was an official South African Police Service-issued firearm or a privately owned firearm, as the deceased was reportedly in possession of both.”
Two firearms and ammunition were confiscated for forensic examination.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has taken over the investigation.
The outgoing Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“This is a deeply disturbing and tragic incident that has robbed a family of their loved ones,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
“We condemn this senseless act of violence in the strongest possible terms. No disagreement or domestic dispute should ever result in the loss of life.
“We encourage anyone experiencing domestic violence to seek help before situations escalate into irreversible tragedies.”
