Infant Among Three Killed in Late-Night Shooting.
Reporter – George C April
Athlone:- The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a full-scale manhunt for three unidentified suspects following a brutal shooting in Athlone.
The shooting claimed the lives of three people, including a nine-month-old baby girl.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, at approximately 22:00, when police responded to reports of gunfire at a residence in Sunbird Court, part of the Bridgetown complex in Athlone.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the bodies of two women – aged 25 and 36 – and the infant, all suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. Reports indicate the two women were found lying side by side on a bed, while the baby was rushed to hospital but later succumbed to her injuries.
Two adult males were also wounded in the attack and transported to a medical facility for treatment. Their conditions have not been publicly disclosed.
Preliminary investigations suggest three unknown gunmen entered the home before opening fire and fleeing the scene. No arrests have been made, and the motive remains under active investigation.
Some community sources and reports have described the residence as a known “problem house” in a gang-affected area, though police have not officially confirmed any gang-related link.
The case is being led by detectives from the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit, with all available resources mobilised to track down the perpetrators.
SAPS Western Cape spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut reiterated the force’s strong condemnation of the attack, describing it as “senseless and brutal.” Authorities have assured residents of Athlone and surrounding communities that every effort is being made to apprehend those responsible and restore safety in the area.
The tragedy has left the local community in shock and mourning, with grieving family members – including the father of one of the deceased women – expressing profound heartbreak. It comes just days before the anticipated deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to high-crime hotspots in the Western Cape and other provinces to combat gang violence and related crimes.
SAPS has appealed to anyone with information to come forward. Contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit tips anonymously via the MySAPS mobile application. All information will be handled with the strictest confidentiality.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of violent crime in parts of Cape Town, and police have vowed to pursue justice for the victims.
Anyone with details is urged to assist the investigation.