A scrap metal collector has been shot and killed and two others wounded just outside SA Metal in Bofors Circle in Epping.
The 43-year-old man, identified as “Bylae” Williams by his family, had been preparing to sell scrap metal at the store on Wednesday just before 1pm when he was gunned down.
Cops confirmed that cases of murder and attempted murder have been opened for investigation.
Williams’ uncle, who asked not to be identified, says Bylae had merely been heading to the scrapyard when he was shot.
The motive is unknown at this stage after Bylae’s trolley filled with scrap could be seen lying near his body.
“He was on his way to the scrapyard and he didn’t even take in his stock when he was shot and killed,” says the uncle.
“He was my sister’s child. Hy was baie sieklik.
“He did not have a wife or any children.
“He lived with his mother in Elsies River.
“We don’t know why this happened to him.”
According to sources at the scene, gunmen opened fire out of a Quantum van and fled the scene.
The area is a hotspot for gang meetings and robberies, sources at the scene claimed.
Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk confirms the shooting and says no arrests were made: “Cases of murder and attempted murder were opened for investigation by Elsies River police after a shooting incident on May 20 at about 12.50pm in Bofors Circle, Epping where a 43-year-old man was shot and fatally wounded, and two others shot and injured.
“The circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation."