Westbury shooting: Gauteng Education Department confirms pupil among victims

The Gauteng Education Department has confirmed that a pupil was among the victims in a recent shooting incident in Westbury, Johannesburg. The Department's MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, expressed concern over the impact of ongoing gang-related violence on learners, educators, parents and the school community.

Initial reports indicate that five young people were shot, with three fatalities and two sustaining critical injuries. The confirmed victim is a learner from R.W. Fick Secondary School, though the identities and potential school affiliations of the other individuals are still under investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The Department is not speculating on the motive or circumstances beyond verified information from authorities. Police have maintained a visible presence in the area, with the Anti-Gang Unit and other law enforcement agencies providing security assessments and interventions. The Department has extended condolences to the bereaved families and emphasized the need for society to address the issue of dangerous weapons in the hands of young people.

The violence has disrupted teaching and learning at several schools in Westbury, with some learners unable to attend classes or write scheduled assessments. The Gauteng Department of Education has strengthened psychosocial support for those affected, providing trauma debriefing and child-protection services through the Teddy Bear Foundation.

Learners, educators, and families can also seek counselling from Childline South Africa's 24-hour helpline. School-based interventions include peer-support structures and Learner Support Agents to identify and escalate emerging risks. The Department will continue monitoring school safety, relying on SAPS and other law enforcement authorities to maintain order and protect learners, educators, and staff.