The City of Cape Town has launched a search and offered a reward of up to R100,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the murder of 14-year-old Grantham Jahmiel van Reenen, who was shot and killed while walking to school on Tuesday, November 19th. Two other teenagers, aged 15 and 17, were also injured in the shooting.
Van Reenen, a Grade 8 student at Ravensmead High School, was gunned down in broad daylight in Elsies River. The gunmen, who approached the victims in a vehicle, opened fire before fleeing the scene. Authorities are still working to determine the motive behind the attack, which took place on Donegal Street as the children were on their way to school.
Alderman JP Smith, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, expressed outrage over the tragedy, calling it a targeted attack. “Grantham was not involved with gangs and had no interest. He was a carefree, smart young boy, who had just started high school,” Smith said during a visit to the family. “In an instant, his life was ended. He was not caught in the crossfire. He was purposefully targeted.”
In response to the ongoing violence, Smith announced the reward, emphasizing the city’s commitment to justice. “We cannot bring back the life of Grantham or any of those victims that have lost their lives through the hands of gangs, but we must make sure those responsible are brought to justice,” he stated.
The gunmen fled onto the grounds of St. Andrew’s Secondary School, triggering panic among students arriving for class, with some fleeing the school grounds. Nearby schools were locked down, and the incident disrupted exams at several schools, forcing schedule changes.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information about the suspects to come forward. A police spokesperson confirmed that a search is underway to apprehend the gunmen responsible for this tragic attack.
