13-year-old girl injured in shooting outside Colesberg restaurant

A SHOOTING incident outside a restaurant in Colesberg has left a 13-year-old girl injured and a 32-year-old man behind bars, as police investigate charges of attempted murder and the unlawful discharge of a firearm.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien confirmed that the incident was reported to the Colesberg Community Service Centre at about 8,50pm on December 18, after gunfire erupted in Bell Street.

According to preliminary information, a man who had just left the restaurant was approached by a car guard, who told him that his vehicle was safe. An argument apparently followed, during which the suspect is said to have drawn a firearm and fired a single shot.

At the same time, a group of four people were walking along the street, including a 13-year-old girl. The child was allegedly struck on the ear and alerted her mother, who reported the incident to the police.

The injured teenager was taken to the local hospital, where she received medical treatment.

Police investigations led officers to a nearby guest house, where the alleged shooter – who was staying there as a guest – was traced and arrested. The firearm believed to have been used in the incident was also seized.

The 32-year-old suspect is expected to appear in court soon, as police continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.