Kelly Graham (14), the only survivor of a murderous attack on a family of Benoni on Wednesday evening, is still fighting for her life in a Johannesburg hospital.
Her mother, Pearl (46); father, James (48); and sister, Nicole (16) died in the attack, North Rand police spokesperson Superintendent Eugene Opperman said on Thursday.
Preliminary investigations suggest that a business partner of Pearl’s arrived at the family’s house in Starlight Street, Farrarmere, at about 9.50pm on Wednesday.
He rammed his bakkie through the motor gate, apparently fired shots through the glass sliding door and entered the house.
It appears as if he then moved from room to room, firing shots at whoever was inside.
Kelly was shot several times, but survived.
Paramedics worked for more than 90 minutes to stabilise her before she was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital.
”She is still very critical and fighting for her life,” Opperman said.
Police on patrol in the same vicinity received a call about a shooting at the house.
On entering at the gate, they saw a man, who was later identified as Ernest van der Westhuizen (43), coming out of the house.
”He had a gun in his hand. Police called on him to drop the firearm. However, Mr van der Westhuizen moved back into the house and shot himself in the head before police could reach him. He died at the scene,” Opperman said.
Detectives seized a 9mm pistol.
Police are now investigating three murder cases and an attempted murder.
An inquest docket was opened in respect of the perpetrator who had shot and killed himself.
”It would appear at this time as if there might have been a dispute between Mr van der Westhuizen and Mrs Graham about dividing the business between them. This might have led to the tragic event. Investigations are continuing,” Opperman said. — Sapa