An emotional vigil was held for a loving dad who was shot and killed by cowardly hijackers in Strandfontein.
About 100 people attended the memorial service on Sunday just after 4pm close to where Grant Fredericks lived in San Remo.
The 39-year-old father of two had gone to a tuck shop in Milano Street to buy a cooldrink when he was confronted by gunmen who shot and killed him for his red VW Polo last Tuesday.
Grant was shot in the back after he handed over the keys to the hijackers and died on the scene.
Strandfontein ward councillor, Elton Jansen, who arranged the vigil together with the Strandfontein Neighbourhood Watch, says the senseless killing has united the community.
He has called on more residents to become active in crime fighting efforts in the area.
The service, which was also attended by some of Grant’s relatives, began with the hymns, Amazing Grace and Great is Thy Faithfulness.
Jansen says: “Residents were given an opportunity to show their respects and offer up prayers for strength to the family.
“It was a very emotional moment for the family but it was heart-warming to witness neighbours coming together to support the Fredericks family.
“I want to use this opportunity to thank everybody who came out to support the Fredericks' and in the words of one of the family members “their mere presence at the vigil to support the family is greatly appreciated”.
Jansen adds: “An appeal was made by the neighbourhood watch for more community members to get involved (in crime fighting).”
Funeral arrangements for Grant are yet to be confirmed.
His wife has been too emotional to speak to the media.
Grant’s car was found after five suspects were nabbed allegedly robbing a jewellery store in Claremont the next day.
An unlicensed firearm was found in Grant’s car.
The gang - Zingisile Kleinhans, Siphokuhle Bulani, Xolani Nakumba, Themba Jilaje and Ntongameli Dyani - has been charged with attempted robbery and the possession of an illegal firearm in the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court.
They are back in court on Friday, when it is expected that a charge of murder will be added to their rap sheets.