Principal and Staff Member Gunned Down Inside Inxiweni Primary School Administration Block
A school principal and an administrative staff member were fatally shot inside the school’s administration block at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni, on Tuesday afternoon.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) said it was deeply shocked and saddened by the tragedy, which occurred while staff were preparing for a meeting.
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Gunshots Heard as Staff Prepared for Meeting
According to IOL, the incident took place at around 5 pm as the 58-year-old principal, a 55-year-old administrator, and other staff members were getting ready for a meeting scheduled for later in the week.
GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona said colleagues in a nearby office suddenly heard gunshots.
“It is alleged that the colleagues who were in a nearby office suddenly overheard gunshots. Fearing for their safety, they hid until it seemed safe to come out. When they did, they reportedly found the principal and the administrator lying in the passage of the admin block,” Mabona said.
Emergency Services Could Not Save Victims
Emergency responders arrived at the school shortly after being alerted, but both victims were declared dead on the scene.
Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, but no additional details had been released at the time of reporting.
Premier Lesufi and MEC Chiloane Visit School
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Education MEC Matome Chiloane visited the school on Tuesday evening to assess the scene and offer support to the grieving families.
“They met with both families to convey condolences and to express support during this difficult time,” Mabona confirmed.
Counselling and Trauma Support to Be Provided
The GDE said psychosocial support teams from the Ekurhuleni North District would be deployed to the school on Wednesday to provide counselling to learners and staff.
Employee wellness officials will also visit to assist affected personnel as the school community grapples with the trauma.