Prosecutor Gunned Down Assassination-style in Front of Partner and Child in Gqeberha
A Regional Court prosecutor was gunned down outside her home in Gqeberha on Thursday, 31 July 2025.
The slain prosecutor, Tracy Brown, was shot in an assassination-style killing by four armed men—right in front of her partner and minor child.
According to initial reports, the assailants ambushed Tracy Brown at her residence and opened fire, leaving her fatally wounded. The motive behind the cold-blooded execution remains unknown at this stage.
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NPA Confirms and Condemns the Murder
The National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa (NPA) has confirmed the tragic death and strongly condemned the killing.
“The NPA condemns the brutal killing of one of its Regional Court prosecutors, Ms Tracy Brown. Ms Tracy Brown was shot assassination-style by four armed men in front of her house in Gqeberha, in the presence of her partner and minor child. Her murder is an attack on the rule of law and our tireless efforts to hold criminals accountable,” the agency said in a statement.
The NPA pledged to work closely with law enforcement to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
“We will spare no effort in ensuring that the perpetrators of this brutal murder are brought to justice. The recent killing of prosecutors, who put their lives on the line every day in the pursuance of justice, is deeply disturbing,” the NPASouth Africa said.
Second Prosecutor Killed in Months
The assassination of Tracy Brown comes just months after the killing of another prosecutor, Elona Sombulula, who was based at the Engcobo Magistrates Court and was shot dead in April this year.
The back-to-back killings have sparked growing concern about the safety of prosecutors in South Africa—individuals who often work under threat while pursuing justice.
“Strike at the Heart of Democracy”
The NPA said targeting prosecutors is a direct attack on the justice system and constitutional democracy.
“To target those who dedicate their lives to upholding the law is to strike at the heart of our constitutional democracy. We will not be deterred in our resolve to deliver on our mandate to ensure justice for the people of our country,” the statement read.
Condolences to the Family
The NPA extended its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Tracy Brown during this difficult time.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Ms Brown’s family, friends and colleagues.”
Police investigations into the shooting are ongoing. No arrests have been made at the time of publication.