South Africa
South African footballer and Olympian Luke Fleurs has been killed in a hijacking in Johannesburg, his Kaizer Chiefs club said on Thursday.
The 24-year-old defender was shot while waiting to be attended to at a petrol station in the Honeydew suburb in Johannesburg, according to police.
“Luke Fleurs tragically lost his life last night during a hijacking incident in Johannesburg. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time,” Kaizer Chiefs said in a statement.
According to police spokesperson Mavela Masondo, the attackers fled with Fleur's vehicle and police were investigating a case of murder and car hijacking.
Fleurs previously played for the national under-23 side, representing South Africa at the Tokyo Olympics.
Fleurs is the latest among thousands of people who are victims to fatal hijackings in South Africa, which has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
The latest official crime statistics from October-December last year showed 5,973 hijacking cases reported.
01:08
Barcelona's new coach to bring more direct style to the club
Go to video
Paris 2024 Olympics: Argentina “scandalized” by match against Morocco
Go to video
Kompany, Bayern's new head coach, is refining his strategy
01:16
European Football Unions challenge FIFA's fixture overload strategy
01:00
Injured footballer Lionel Messi honoured for his 45th major title
01:28
Philadelphia footballer becomes youngest MLS player