Father Shoots Teenage Son in Levubu

The Limpopo police are investigating a harrowing domestic violence case in Ha-Mutsha Tshitandani village, Levubu, after a father allegedly shot and killed his teenage son before attempting to end his own life.

The incident occurred early on Sunday morning at around 06:17. Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that officers rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found the 53-year-old father lying in a pool of blood outside the house, still alive but injured, with a 9mm pistol and spent cartridges nearby.

Inside the house, police discovered the lifeless body of the 17-year-old victim, identified as Ranwedzi Mulaudzi. He had sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the head and was declared dead at the scene.

Preliminary reports suggest the father, a member of the South African National Defence Force stationed outside Mookgophong, turned the firearm on himself after fatally wounding his son. He was rushed to hospital under police guard and has since been placed under arrest.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the incident and expressed concern over the rise of domestic violence across Limpopo. “These tragic acts tear families and communities apart. We urge anyone facing conflict or abuse at home to seek help before resorting to violence,” she said.

Investigations continue into the motive. Police sources indicated that domestic tensions may have played a role, and it has been alleged that the teenager recently returned from the Moloto Discipline Centre, where he was undergoing rehabilitation for substance abuse.

Authorities have urged the community to remain calm and allow the police to complete their investigation.